Mumbai: Nature lovers dream of 'Mindspace Bird Sanctuary'

The flamingos at Malad creek, which is close to Mindpsace. Nature lovers say the area can be used to promote ecotourism. Pics/Malad West Creek Facebook page

With the sighting of flamingos in the creek behind Mindspace in Malad West, nature lovers and environmentalists are pitching for the area to be dedicated for birdwatchers. For the past three years, the pink visitors have been spotted in the creek, drawing scores of birders.

Vikas Mahajan, who has studied wildlife conservation and is a wildlife photographer, said he had spotted flamingos in the creek in 2014 and 2018. Sharing his experience, Mahajan said, "It was like living close to a bird sanctuary. I spotted 53 birds in and around the creek."

Mahajan said it is a matter of pride that the area near Mindspace is frequented by flamingos. "The creek is always active with resident and migratory birds. Unfortunately, a lot of plastic, glass, wood, cloth and thermocol are found in the creek. It would be great if the Forest Department and the Mangrove Cell declare it as Mindspace Bird Sanctuary."

Nature lover Shariq Raza, who has been fighting to save mangroves in Malad, too feels along the same lines. Raza said the area should be promoted as an ecotourism spot. "If the department and Mangroves Cell can identify certain locations along the creek close to the road and construct some bird watching points then many nature lovers will be able to enjoy the sighting of birds," said Raza.

According to the Malad West Creek Facebook page, the creek is also host to many other species of birds, including terns, plovers, gulls, stints, shanks and egrets.
Environmentalist Stalin D from non-profit Vanashakti offered a bird's eye view. He said, "The sighting of flamingos [in Malad creek] in larger numbers is a clear indication that the habitats of wetland birds are shrinking. Every remaining site which is frequented by the birds needs to be protected and showcased. It's up to the Environment and Forest departments to coordinate their efforts in this direction."