Residents of Sector 58A Seawoods Nerul marked World Migratory Bird Day on Saturday, May 11, with a significant victory as they intervened to prevent the illegal takeover of a portion of the NRI wetland by a land grabber. Prompt action by the residents nullified attempts to install an unauthorized signboard and concrete gate on the wetland, preserving it for nature enthusiasts and the flocks of flamingos that frequent the area.

During birdwatching activities on Migratory Bird Day, residents discovered a signboard declaring the wetland as "Private Property," accompanied by a threat of prosecution for trespassers. Concerned citizens immediately questioned the legitimacy of such claims, given the wetland's status as a notified satellite wetland of the Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary (TCFS), a Ramsar site. They challenged the attempt to restrict access to the wetland, which serves as a crucial habitat for various bird species.

The Sector 58A Resident Welfare Association, in collaboration with the Save Navi Mumbai Environment group, swiftly lodged complaints with local authorities, including the police and Forest department. Forest officials, accompanied by the police, responded promptly, removing the illegal structures from the wetland area.

Sunil Agarwal, Founder of the Save Navi Mumbai Environment Group, expressed concern over the timing of the land grab attempt, hinting at potential political motivations during election season. Agarwal, who has been actively advocating for the protection of NRI wetland and T S Chanakya wetland, questioned the delay in resolving legal matters surrounding the wetlands, raising doubts about the efficiency of the legal system.

In response to the incident, the Sector 58A Resident Welfare Association and the Save Navi Mumbai Environment group are convening opposite Venkatesh Towers Sector 58A, Seawoods, Nerul, at 6:00 pm to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day and discuss further actions. They plan to lodge formal complaints with CIDCO, the Thane collector, Forest department, and NMMC Commissioner, and pursue legal action against those responsible for the attempted land grab.