When we think of Thane, we often picture its iconic lakes, the Yeoor hills, or the bustling cityscape. But very few of us stop to consider the vast network of rivers and creeks silently flowing around us, shaping our environment, supplying our drinking water, and balancing our urban ecosystem. At the heart of this system lie the Vasai Creek and the Thane Creek, twin arms of the mighty Ulhas River, silently working behind the scenes. Let’s explore this water system in a simple, citizen-friendly language.
What Are Vasai and Thane Creeks?
Vasai Creek and Thane Creek are wide tidal waterways that grow broader as they near the Arabian Sea. Fed by the Ulhas River, which starts its journey in the Western Ghats, these creeks take shape near Kalyan where the river splits — the northern branch forming Vasai Creek that flows past Bhiwandi and Mira-Bhayandar, and the southern branch forming Thane Creek, which flows along Thane, Navi Mumbai, and Mumbai. Both creeks are surrounded by rich natural habitats like mangroves, mudflats, and marshy land.
Rivers and Tributaries That Feed These Creeks
Ulhas River is the main source feeding both Vasai and Thane Creeks, but it is strengthened by several important tributaries from the Sahyadri hills. These rivers together form the Ulhas River Basin — a lifeline for our drinking water and ecological balance.
The Bhatsa River, with its large dam near Shahapur, supplies water to Thane, Mumbai, and Navi Mumbai. The Barvi River, flowing from Badlapur, joins Ulhas near Shahad and is harnessed by the Barvi Dam. The Kalu River merges near Titwala and supports the Bhatsa reservoir, while smaller streams like Paal and Murbadi also add to the flow.
A Drinking Water Lifeline
Though Vasai and Thane Creeks hold salty water, the rivers and streams that feed them bring fresh water from the hills — water that is vital for our daily needs. Cities like Thane, Kalyan-Dombivli, Navi Mumbai, and even Mumbai depend on this river system, supported by dams like Bhatsa and Barvi, and intake points like Shahad and Mohili. These structures store and supply clean water to millions, while the rest flows on to meet the creeks. So, while we don’t drink from the creeks themselves, they mark the final leg of a river system that keeps our cities alive.
Ecological Importance
Vasai and Thane Creeks are lively natural areas, surrounded by mangroves that protect the shore and give a safe home to many animals and birds. These wetlands welcome migratory birds like flamingos and herons in winter, while also sustaining traditional fishing communities such as the Koli and Agri. With thoughtful protection, the region holds great promise for eco-tourism, bird-watching, and nature experiences.
Threats to the Creek System
Despite their vital role, Vasai and Thane Creeks are under serious threat. Wastewater, industrial discharge, and plastic from nearby cities pollute their waters. Unchecked encroachments along creek banks and mangroves disturb the natural flow and harm biodiversity. Sand mining and debris dumping have made the creek beds shallow, increasing the risk of flooding during heavy rains. At the same time, deforestation in the Bhatsa and Barvi catchment areas are affecting rainfall absorption, which in turn threatens our drinking water supply.
What Can We, the Citizens of Thane, Do?
To protect our precious water system, we must start with simple but meaningful actions — use water wisely, so that dams like Bhatsa and Barvi aren't overburdened; never let waste or plastic enter drains, as it all ends up polluting our creeks; support efforts to clean wetlands and protect mangroves; and most importantly, understand and share the importance of our rivers and creeks — because awareness is the first step toward lasting change.
The next time you cross Vasai or Thane Creek, remember — it's not just water, it's life. Let's protect it, for today and for the future.
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