'Chalo Chanakya' March garners massive support for mangrove protection
- Indrani Basu
- 26 Dec, 2023
A powerful show of unity unfolded during the "Chalo Chanakya" Citizens March on Sunday, December 24th, organized by the Save Navi Mumbai Environment Group. Led by Mr. Sunil Agarwal and Mrs. Shruti Agarwal, the march drew an overwhelming response from citizens, students, residents, and institutions, rallying against the human-induced devastation of Chanakya Wetland.
Expressing gratitude, Mr. Sunil Agarwal emphasized two crucial demands: 1) Protect Chanakya Lake in accordance with the Bombay High Court order, and 2) Initiate an FIR against those responsible for the mangrove destruction. The 'Chalo Chanakya' march has become a driving force, spearheading the collective effort to ensure the preservation of mangroves.
Birder and photographer Ms. Seema Tania, a witness to the distressing scene at Chanakya wetland, stressed the urgency of the situation. Mr. Dharmesh Barai, Founder of the Environment Life Foundation, underscored the vital role of wetlands and mangroves for coastal cities, emphasizing the urgent need for their protection.
Conservationist Stalin Dayanand criticized CIDCO, stating, "CIDCO is very well aware of the violation, but it simply wants to tire out the legal system by hearing out multiple complaints on similar matters."
In a collective plea to authorities, organizers reiterated the call for immediate intervention to safeguard the ecological balance of this "Gold land of Birds heaven." The collective voice of concerned citizens and environmental advocates resonated through hashtags such as #chaloChanakya, #savewetlands, #savemangroves, and others.
Sunil Agarwal, the driving force behind the protest, expressed gratitude to participants and announced plans for a follow-up march on December 31st at 8:00 am, emphasizing the need for swift action. He concluded, "If authorities still fail to take any action, we will have to approach the Bombay High Court, pointing out disregard for the court's directions and orders."

