The MHADA has begun cleaning Lokhandwala Lake, an urban birding haven in Andheri West and a favourite among migratory birds. Wildlife experts and conservationists stress that the process must be conducted scientifically to preserve its fragile ecosystem, a report stated in this newspaper.

At least 100 bird species, including migratory ones, rely on the lake, which still awaits formal wetland status. The invasive aquatic plant Ipomoea has been spreading across the lake, choking open water zones and threatening biodiversity. Conservationists argue that wetland recognition would allow for controlled vegetation removal and better protection. While residents have been fighting to protect this lake for years, construction debris and garbage have found their way into it.  Authorities should remove every bit of garbage, but avoid disturbing nutrient-rich silt and aquatic plants.