India, June 21 -- Eco-tourism will get a boost in Navi Mumbai with the city's first mangrove parks set to come up in Airoli and Ghansoli. The Maharashtra forest department has appointed a consultant for conceptual design and planning services for the development of the parks, following a tender process.

Navi Mumbai, located along the creek, has been developed through reclamation of salt lands and the creek area. The vibrant mangroves jungle along its coastline has played a major role in protecting it from flooding, even during the 26/7 deluge. In the past few years, however, the mangrove jungles have faced destruction and threats in the name of development and from encroachments.

Hence, for preservation, the Mangrove Division North Konk...