BMC proposes changing reservation of plot to zoo to set up aviary

The civic body’s notification states, “Under Section 37(1) of the BMC Act, any objections and/or suggestions in respect to the proposed modification need to be forwarded in writing within 30 days from the date of publication of this notification.”

“A detailed plan about the proposed modification has been kept open for inspection of the general public at the BMC’s local T ward office and chief engineer Development Plan’s office inside the civic headquarters,” read the BMC’s notification.

“This bird park will be an extension of the Byculla Zoo which also has an aviary. However, this facility will be dedicated specifically for the birds. The plan seeks to develop zones of different continents where the birds of that particular zone will be kept. These zones will emulate the habitat and the cultural aspects of the different regions, which will also educate the visitors,” said an official.

According to the layout plan, the aviary will have different zones such as the interpretation centre, kids zone, Australia zone, Africa zone, America zone, and public amenities, among others. Furthermore, the aviary will connect into a playground comprising a basketball court, jogging track, volleyball court, tennis court as well as an open gym.

The aviary will house up to 22 species of birds including black swan, toco toucan, peafowl white etc. The BMC’s plan to acquire additional birds had been approved by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA), last year.