CIDCO Urged to Revive Nerul’s Flamingo Lake
Environmentalists and government officials have raised alarms about the deteriorating condition of DPS Flamingo Lake in Nerul, Navi Mumbai. The lake, a crucial habitat for migratory flamingos, has faced severe ecological threats due to the blockage of water flow, which has led to the stagnation of water and the growth of moss and muck. Activists have called on CIDCO, the city’s development authority, to act promptly and restore the lake’s vital water channels to preserve the wetland’s delicate ecosystem.
The issue was brought to light after the state Mangrove Cell and a high-level committee, led by Forest Secretary Venugopal Reddy, highlighted the importance of protecting the DPS Flamingo Lake as a conservation reserve. The committee, which also includes CIDCO’s managing director and Mangrove Cell head SV Ramarao, recommended that CIDCO take immediate action to ensure uninterrupted water flow into and out of the wetland. The blockage of intertidal water, primarily caused by debris and earth accumulation at the lake’s inlets, has been identified as the primary factor contributing to the lake’s decline. B N Kumar, the director of the environmental organisation NatConnect Foundation, has previously written to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, describing the state of the lake as “sorrowful.” Kumar further explained that the blockage of water inlets, particularly on both the eastern and western sides of the lake, had led to a significant decline in water quality, which in turn affected the flamingo population that frequents the lake.
“The situation worsened last year after a series of flamingo deaths, believed to have occurred due to the dry conditions at the lake caused by CIDCO’s actions. The lake, which once attracted hundreds of flamingos, is now barely inhabitable for these migratory birds,” said Kumar, referencing studies by the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS). Environmentalists have stressed the importance of preserving such wetland areas, particularly due to their role in mitigating potential bird strike risks at the nearby Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). The environmental community has put forward a set of recommendations to CIDCO, urging the removal of accumulated debris and earth from the lake’s inlets, as well as the deepening of the water channels by one to two feet to restore proper water flow. Additionally, they have called for the installation of cement pipes and for ensuring security to maintain water flow integrity. There is also a plea to sensitise the local community to prevent future violations that could harm the ecosystem.
Despite the challenges, there is hope for the lake’s recovery. Jyoti Nadkarni, convenor of the Kharghar Wetlands and Hills Forum, noted that flamingos have begun to return to the area, although in smaller numbers. “However, DPS Flamingo Lake, one of the key resting spots for flamingos during high tide, remains in poor condition. Immediate restoration is necessary to ensure it remains a viable destination for migratory birds,” Nadkarni stated. As the situation unfolds, the onus is now on CIDCO and local authorities to act swiftly to prevent further damage to the wetland and ensure its long-term survival as a vital ecological asset for Navi Mumbai and its migratory bird population.
