Last Updated: 12.12.24

BEAG was reached out by an environment activist from Thane regarding his concerns towards the lake beautification project that disturbed the lake system. We intend to provide a holistic approach for the restoration and conservation of these water bodies along with the International Centre for Climate and Sustainability Action Foundation (ICCSA)

As a prelude, on 12th January 2024, the Bombay Environmental Action Group (BEAG), in partnership with the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC), CSIR, IIT Bombay, and ICCSA, hosted a workshop titled “Sustainable Restoration of Lakes and Water Bodies” at the Urban Research Centre, Thane. The workshop provided a platform for stakeholders across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) to explore holistic approaches to restoring urban water bodies.

The event featured sessions on sustainable solutions, including nature-based restoration techniques, scientific wastewater management, and successful case studies from Coimbatore and Delhi. Shri Abhijit Bangar, Thane’s Municipal Commissioner, emphasised the urgency of lake restoration and acknowledged TMC’s challenges, urging engineers to adopt expert recommendations. The panel discussion, moderated by Ms. Hema Ramani from BEAG, addressed restoration challenges and recommended baseline studies, public engagement via an online portal, and clear definitions of “lakes” to guide projects effectively.

Panel Discussion moderated by Ms. Hema Ramani at the Workshop From left – Ms Manisha Pradhan,  (Chief Environment Officer, TMC), Shri Rajesh Pandit (Namami Goda Foundation) Shri Naveen Sharma (AKS Hospitality)

Following the workshop, BEAG and TMC officials conducted site visits to Railadevi and Upvan Lakes, providing observations and recommendations to the Municipal Commissioner to support ongoing restoration efforts. This initiative highlighted the importance of collaboration and sustainable practices in restoring Thane’s lakes.

Dr Tuhin Banerji (Left) and Ms Hema Ramani (Centre) in discussion with Deputy Engineer (Right) at Upvan Lake, Thane 

Discussion with the TMC officials at Railadevi Lake, Thane