There are very few cities in the country that can claim to have migratory birds from as far away as Europe, Siberia, China and Mongolia, Pune being one of them. The 22-acre Dr Salim Ali Biodiversity Park in the city, named after the ‘Birdman of India’, situated on the banks of the Mula-Mutha river, is a paradise for both bird watchers and nature lovers as it Attracts 130 different species of birds. At a time when the city is rapidly urbanising, this green belt provides a respite from all the pollution and noise that is drowning the city.
But the park is struggling against increasing anthropogenic pressure, particularly from garbage and construction debris, as well as illegal encroachment that has been made worse by the lack of a clear boundary or fence. The issue came up in a recent meeting between Environment Minister Aaditya Thackeray and members of Save Salim Ali Sanctuary Action Group (SSASAG) in the presence of MLA Sunil Tingre, Municipal Commissioner Vikram Kumar, Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) Rahul Patil. among other officers. During the meeting it was decided to find a way to transfer the land to the Forest Department. Possible solutions will be discussed with the Minister in the next follow-up meeting.
Patil told Indian Express“The Forest Department is ready to acquire the land for wildlife conservation. However, as per the directions of the High Court, the status quo is on the land and we cannot take ownership until it is resolved.
On the issue of illegal dumping and encroachment in the park, Additional Municipal Commissioner (Estates) Kunal Khemnar said, “PMC has registered an FIR against the person accused of dumping construction and demolition garbage. Apart from this, we have beefed up our security, put up a gate and are installing CCTV…”
,