The Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH) India has launched a new Biodiversity Park in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maharashtra, as part of its urban riverfront rejuvenation and ecological restoration initiative. The park, spanning 190,000 sq. ft., aims to restore native biodiversity, improve the urban microclimate, and promote sustainable water and sanitation practices. Developed along the Kham River, the park features large-scale plantations of native species, medicinal and ornamental gardens, eco-friendly pathways, and a biodiversity pond that supports aquatic life and natural water filtration.
The park also includes a Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) with a capacity of 59 kiloliters per day, which treats sewage water drawn from the Kham River and reuses the recycled water for irrigation. The plantation effort includes 1,067 saplings of native species, 42 varieties of medicinal plants, 1,072 ornamental plants, and 600 bamboo saplings, selected for their drought tolerance and suitability to semi-arid conditions.
The park’s artificial pond supports aquatic flora and fauna, acts as a natural filtration system, and contributes to rainwater retention and groundwater recharge. A dedicated Bird Park is also being developed to support resident and migratory bird species and serve as a learning space for citizens and students.
According to Prerana Langa, CEO of AKAH India, urban biodiversity parks like this one are essential climate infrastructure, improving the city’s microclimate, strengthening water systems, and creating inclusive public spaces where communities can reconnect with nature. The park reflects AKAH India’s belief that climate resilience must be grounded in ecology, community engagement, and long-term stewardship of natural resources.
The inauguration of the park was attended by senior officials of the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation, who praised the efforts of AKAH India and the municipal team in transforming a neglected space into a clean and usable area for the city and its people. The park is expected to serve as a replicable model for climate-resilient urban green spaces in India’s rapidly growing cities, addressing rising urban heat, pollution, and biodiversity loss.