Bombay HC gives state two months to begin mapping wetlands

Mumbai: The Bombay high court on Tuesday inquired about the mapping of wetlands across the state. The HC asked whether satellite mapping of the wetlands of different districts of Maharashtra can be done simultaneously. The petitioner, Vanashakti, which had sought preservation of wetlands, including marshy areas, creeks, ponds and other areas in the petition, has urged that mapping of wetlands in Mumbai, Thane and Navi Mumbai needs to be done urgently.

The state government on Tuesday told the high court that the mapping of wetlands in Sindhudurg has already been completed. “We conducted the mapping of wetlands in Sindhudurg as a pilot project, as it is one of the most eco-sensitive district. We have also submitted our report on the district’s map,” said an official from the state environment department.  

The court also told the state to direct the district collectors to start the mapping of wetlands of respective districts especially Palghar within two months.

“While the mapping of Palghar’s wetlands is necessary, it is also important that timely mapping of wetlands in urban cities like Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Thane should be conducted urgently, as violations in wetlands of these cities are happening largely,” said Zaman Ali, Advocate of Vanashakti.

The state government began the mapping of Sindhudurg’s wetland in April this year. The court has given the state government time till the next hearing on November 14 to give updates on the mapping of wetlands across Maharashtras’ districts.