The statement was made during the hearing of a public interest litigation filed by an NGO on an apprehension that the nature park which is a reserved forest may be included within the scope of the redevelopment project of Dharavi slum area.
Senior Advocate Gayatri Singh, appearing for the NGO, pointed out that the project may unlawfully allow the project proponent to acquire or develop the Mahim Nature Park in contravention of its protected nature status.
The ACJ however specified that in the event the recreational area has to be changed to anything but a recreational park or reserved area, changes will have to be made in the development plan of the Maharashtra government.
Senior Advocate Dr Milind Sathe for the authority said that in the event, the State decides to change it to something else aside from reserved forest, it will be the State’s prerogative, and the petitioner may challenge the same.
Source: Barandbench
