Mumbai’s Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) administration has intensified efforts to curb illegal taxi operations ferrying visitors inside the protected green space, citing serious safety and environmental concerns. The forest department has formally alerted the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and local police to take strict action against vehicles operating without valid permits, fitness certificates, or safety authorisations, underscoring the risk posed to tourists and the fragile ecosystem.
An official from SGNP stated that several unlicensed vehicles continue to transport visitors from the main gate to Kanheri caves, despite repeated warnings and an outright ban on private four-wheelers. The official emphasised that none of these vehicles possess proper documentation or undergo routine safety checks, putting passenger lives at risk. The alert comes in the wake of an incident on 5 September, when a CNG taxi caught fire within the park; fortunately, no passengers were on board. The forest department has also noted that many of these operators reside in encroachments within SGNP and reportedly have criminal backgrounds. The association of park guides has raised concerns over unregulated private cars operating without training or authorisation, highlighting the persistent threat to both visitor safety and park conservation.
Local authorities report that over 30 makeshift taxis continue to function within the park, violating regulations first clarified in a Bombay High Court order from 1997, which prohibited taxis and autorickshaws from entering SGNP to protect its delicate ecosystem. Tourists have complained of harassment and overcharging, with operators demanding Rs 50 to Rs 60 per person for short trips to the Kanheri caves. Experts point out that the continued operation of these illegal vehicles not only jeopardises visitor safety but also undermines broader sustainability and eco-tourism goals for the park. The forest department has urged law enforcement to ensure compliance with long-standing environmental regulations, arguing that unchecked operations threaten both biodiversity and Mumbai’s green heritage.
Officials have committed to monitoring the situation closely, coordinating with the RTO and local police to enforce vehicle bans and issue penalties where necessary. They stress that protecting SGNP from illegal commercial exploitation is crucial for maintaining an eco-friendly, safe, and equitable visitor experience. The crackdown is also expected to deter political and economic interference in the operations of these unauthorised taxis, which have historically been shielded due to local influence. Environmentalists and frequent park visitors have welcomed the move, expressing hope that decisive action will finally restore safety and order while preserving the park’s ecological integrity.
As Mumbai balances rapid urban growth with the need to safeguard its green lungs, SGNP’s ongoing efforts highlight the importance of sustainable urban tourism practices that prioritise safety, environmental protection, and responsible governance.
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