BMC razes unauthorised structures at private Dadar Zoo, weeks after notice

More than two weeks following the issuance of a notice by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the privately-run Marine Aqua Zoo in Dadar has witnessed the demolition of six unauthorized structures within its premises. The BMC had previously raised concerns over the unauthorized development of temporary structures within the zoo.
Details obtained from the BMC indicate that the six structures that were razed to the ground included an unapproved brick structure and several sheds constructed using bamboo, tarpaulin, and leaves. These structures, though unauthorized, had persisted for some time before the municipal corporation took decisive action.
In the earlier notice served to the private zoo, it was clearly stipulated that they had a 15-day window to remove the unauthorized structures. However, the zoo management chose to defy the instructions issued by the BMC, leading to the eventual demolition of these structures. The official statement from the BMC regarding this matter reads, "A notice was given to remove these constructions within 15 days. But due to non-compliance, today the municipal corporation took action and removed these constructions."
Situated in close proximity to Dadar's iconic Shivaji Park, the Marine Aqua Zoo had already been under scrutiny, with investigations conducted by both the police and the forest department. This heightened scrutiny followed a complaint lodged by the BMC after a hatchling, a baby crocodile, was found in the nearby Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Olympic Swimming Pool, which is run by the civic authorities.
This incident marked the fourth time in recent months that animals had to be rescued from the Dadar pool. The recurring presence of animals in the pool had raised suspicions within the BMC that the privately owned zoo, known for housing exotic reptiles and fish in standard cages, might be linked to these appearances.
The previous incidents involved the rescue of a python and various snakes from the pool, underscoring the concerns surrounding the proximity of the Marine Aqua Zoo to the civic-run swimming facility. The repeated presence of animals in the pool not only posed safety concerns but also raised questions about the management and containment practices at the zoo.
The BMC's decision to demolish the unauthorized structures serves as a clear message to the Marine Aqua Zoo regarding the importance of adhering to regulations and ensuring that their operations do not negatively impact the surrounding community. The ongoing investigations into the repeated animal appearances in the swimming pool suggest that further actions and inquiries may be taken to address this issue comprehensively.
In conclusion, the recent demolition of unauthorized structures at the Marine Aqua Zoo highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the zoo and the need for responsible management and adherence to regulations. The connection between the zoo and the recurring appearance of animals in the nearby swimming pool underscores the importance of maintaining proper containment practices and ensuring the safety of both the animals and the community. It remains to be seen how the Marine Aqua Zoo will respond to these developments and whether further actions will be taken to address this issue in a holistic manner.

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BMC razes unauthorised structures at private Dadar Zoo, weeks after notice

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