India, April 10 -- Maharashtra's urban development department has begun the process to reserve a 4.4-acre plot of land in Nahur to set up a Rs.100 crore zoo and aviary.

The department issued a notice on April 7 calling for suggestions or objections to de-reserve the plot, which is currently a park on which construction isn't allowed.

The plan to open a zoo and aviary in Nahur was first announced last year. According to Mumbai's municipal commissioner Bhushan Gagrani, the idea is to have a tourist spot in the eastern suburbs, which are starved of such attractions. Currently, the only spots in the eastern suburbs for nature lovers are the Powai Lake promenade and the Bhandup pumping station, where people go to watch birds, including flami...