Mangrove cell to set up make-shift centre for rescued marine animals in Versova

Since land related issues have delayed setting up of Mumbai's first rescue and medical aid centre for stranded or injured marine animals at Versova, the Maharashtra State Mangrove Cell decided to set up a temporary facility to ensure quick response this monsoon.

N Vasudevan, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (APCCF), Mangrove Cell, informed that while they are following up with various authorities including the Suburban Collector to get the land at Versova, they have decided to set up a small facility near the Versova beach. Around May, the sea becomes violent due to the southwest monsoons and many cases of turtles and other marine mammals being washed ashore are reported.

"Currently, members of several organisations, who rescue stranded turtles, don't even have basic facilities for post-rescue operation. We are planning to put up a temporary facility that will include some tanks and basic rescue kits along with a stretcher, till the time a proper rescue centre is set up there," Vasudevan said.

Pawan Sharma, Honarary Wildlife Warden for Thane, who has rescued many turtles, said, "Ideally, any turtle that is rescued after being washed ashore needs to be stabilised first, as it is already in trauma. However, since there is no place or facility available with us, we rush them to Dahnau by road, which tires it out. Once this temporary centre comes up, even Mumbai-based wildlife vets, who are experts in handling turtles, can be consulted immediately and the turtle can be treated at the site itself." He added that this can only work as a back up and a well-equipped centre is needed for the long term.

Dr Dinesh Vinherkar, Veterinarian and turtle expert, said he had offered his assistance to the mangrove cell to set up the centre and is ready to help them with setting up the make-shift facility for this season, too.

Prashant Deshmukh, Range Forest Officer (RFO), Mangrove Cell, said he has already received instructions for setting up the temporary facility and would begin work on it soon.

As per the original plan, the actual full-fledged centre would be a 1,200 square metre with four tanks to accommodate injured turtles and even a dolphin, if required. The centre will also feature a fully-equipped operation theatre with important equipment like X-ray machines.