Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai
Mumbai, Apr 20: In a significant push toward urban ecological restoration, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to rejuvenate 11 lakes across the P/North ward — covering Malad, Manori, and Madh — under a pilot initiative aimed at reviving natural ecosystems and enhancing public green spaces.
The plan, still in its early stages, was announced by Union Minister and North Mumbai MP Piyush Goyal on Saturday. Speaking at a development review meeting, Goyal stated, “These lakes will be upgraded and their water quality improved to ensure they serve the local citizens effectively.” The proposed rejuvenation is part of a larger effort to develop and beautify existing open spaces in north Mumbai.
Among the lakes earmarked for rejuvenation are:
• Gaondevi Talav
• Bhujale Talav (Ram Nagar)
• Ali Talav
• Harbadevi Talav
• Vanila Talav
• Bhati Talav
According to Kundan Valvi, Assistant Municipal Commissioner, the P/North ward was selected for the pilot due to its high concentration of lakes — 18 in total. However, only Lotus Talao in Malwani currently falls under BMC jurisdiction. The rest are managed by the Mumbai suburban collector.
“In 2022, the BMC had requested the suburban collector to hand over at least 16 lakes for rejuvenation,” said Valvi. “That transfer is still pending, but with renewed focus, we expect progress soon.”
Most lakes in the ward suffer from poor water quality, marked by high Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels — a sign of heavy pollution. The lakes are plagued by garbage dumping, unhygienic conditions, and loss of biodiversity.
The rejuvenation plan aims to address these issues through:
• Desilting and cleaning operations
• Water quality improvement
• Beautification of lake surroundings
• Ecological restoration to support local flora and fauna
A senior BMC official noted that each lake has unique challenges, necessitating custom restoration strategies. “We will begin with a survey of the lakes once they’re officially handed over to us. A one-size-fits-all approach won't work here,” the official emphasized.
The project is expected to roll out in phases, starting with lakes that are in the most critical condition or are in densely populated areas. Surveys and planning for each lake will form the foundation for tailored rejuvenation efforts.
With Union Minister Goyal directing the collector’s office to expedite the transfer of the lakes to BMC, officials hope the groundwork for the rejuvenation drive will begin soon, bringing a much-needed ecological facelift to the heart of north Mumbai.