Thane to Get New Botanical Garden and Zoo; Maharashtra Government Allocates Rs10 Crore

Thane, 1st August 2026: The Maharashtra government has approved the development of a modern botanical garden and zoo in Thane, allocating an initial ₹10 crore for the ambitious project. Inspired by Mumbai’s Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Botanical Garden and Zoo, the new facility is expected to promote biodiversity conservation, environmental education, and eco-tourism.

The project will be developed on approximately 10 hectares of reserved land at Chitalsar-Manpada (Tikujiniwadi). It forms part of the ₹150 crore development fund sanctioned by the state’s Urban Development Department for various civic projects in the Thane Municipal Corporation area.

According to the government’s corrigendum issued on July 20, an initial provision of ₹10 crore has been earmarked for the botanical garden and zoo. The site has been identified on Reservation No. 4 in Survey No. 51/A/1/1 at Chitalsar-Manpada.

The proposed facility will include a botanical garden featuring diverse plant species, a zoo, biodiversity conservation initiatives, environmental awareness programmes, and recreational spaces for visitors. Authorities believe the project will provide residents with a dedicated green public space while strengthening conservation efforts in the rapidly urbanising city.

Officials said the project will also serve as an educational destination, allowing students and children to learn about wildlife, plants, and environmental conservation through interactive experiences. The development is expected to enhance Thane’s tourism potential and reduce the need for residents to travel to Mumbai to visit similar attractions.

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said the project has been approved following the directions of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as part of the state’s broader development plan for Thane. He said the initiative aims to strike a balance between urban development and environmental conservation while creating a landmark destination for the city.

Once completed, the botanical garden and zoo are expected to become one of Thane’s major recreational and tourism attractions, offering families, students, and nature enthusiasts a modern facility dedicated to biodiversity, education, and sustainable urban development.