Oshiwara River

About:

Oshiwara River is a small river that flows through the suburbs of Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. It originates in the Aarey Milk Colony and flows through the western suburbs, including Goregaon and Andheri, before draining into the Arabian Sea. The river has been heavily impacted by urbanization, with pollution and encroachments being major concerns in recent years.



The Oshiwara gets filled at Andheri, a suburb that had suffered extensively during the floods. The river originates in the Aarey milk colony. On its 10-km journey through the relatively unspoilt environment of the national park it is a clean stream. A cocktail of industrial pollutants empty into it as it crosses the Oshiwara Industrial Estate and slums and cattle-sheds lining its bank pour in raw sewage.

Location info:

Address:Mumbai,India.
District: Mumbai Suburban District.
Nearest City: Mumbai
Best time to visit: Nov to Feb.

Climate/Weather:

Summer (March to June): Hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. Monsoon (July to September): The river experiences heavy rainfall, leading to increased water flow. Mumbai’s average rainfall is about 2,200 mm, and this period often results in flooding of low-lying areas near the river. Winter (November to February): Cool and pleasant, with temperatures between 18°C and 28°C.

History:

Historically, the Oshiwara River was a vital natural resource for local communities, supporting agriculture and providing water. However, rapid urban development in the 20th century led to the degradation of the river, which is now one of the most polluted rivers in Mumbai. Efforts to clean and rejuvenate the river have been initiated by local authorities and environmental groups, but challenges remain due to waste disposal and illegal encroachments.

Interesting things to do:

Nature Walks: The Aarey Milk Colony, near the river's origin, offers green spaces and walking trails that provide a glimpse of the city’s natural surroundings. Photography: The river and its surroundings, particularly near Aarey, provide opportunities for urban landscape photography.

Interesting things to Visit:

Aarey Milk Colony:
Located near the river’s origin, this area is one of the last green belts in Mumbai and is home to a variety of flora and fauna.

Versova Beach:
The river ultimately drains into the Arabian Sea near Versova Beach, which is a popular spot for relaxation and walks along the coast.

Erangal Beach,35 km away:
A beautiful place with golden sands. The suburban electric train stops at Malad, from where the journey must be made by road.

Mobile range info:

Mobile network coverage is strong in all areas through which the Oshiwara River flows, with reliable service from major providers like Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone.

How to reach?

Nearest Railway Station: The Western Line of Mumbai’s suburban railway network has stations at Goregaon, Andheri, and Jogeshwari, which are all close to the river.
Nearest Airport:Mumbai International Airport.
Road Transport:All kinds of private and public transport are available.It has good road facilities which makes it easily reachable.

Nearest Visiting places:

Bassein (Vasai),77km away:
Bassein or Vasai was an ancient Portuguese settlement located about 77 km to the north of Mumbai, near the Thane creek. The Bassein Fort was constructed in 1532 by Bahadur Shah, Sultan of Gujarat. Ruins of the Fort and the Cathedral of St. Joseph and the Churches of St Antony and St. Paul can be seen in this fort. The city walls are still intact. There are also decorative gateways inscribed with coats of arms and Portuguese graves dating back to 1558.
Access: Bassein or Vasai is 77 kms by road along the Mumbai- Ahmedabad highway. The nearest station is Bassein or Vasai on the Western Railway. From there the fort can be reached by auto-rickshaw or taxi.

Gorai and Manori Beaches,59 km away:
Dotted with quaint villages on either side, the twin beaches of Manori and Gorai are located across the creek from Borivili or Malad. These beaches are generally safe to swim expect during the monsoons when it becomes dangerous due to strong underwater currents. These villages offer a peaceful retreat with plenty of dried fish, palm trees etc. Essel World, the amusement park is located in Gorai village.
Access: The nearest railway stations are Borivili or Malad from where the journey must be made by road and sea (Ferry). Also approachable by road via Bhayandar on Western Express Highway. Private shacks are available for stay.

Kanheri Caves,45 km away:
Situated in the heart of Mumbai's Sanjay Gandhi National Park- around 7km from the parks entrance, the complex contains 109 Buddhist caves. Carved out of natives rock, the caves that form the complex are believed to have been occupied by Buddhist monks for nearly a thousand years, starting 2nd century A.D., thus making them one of the oldest rock monasteries in the country. Caves No.1,2,3 are noteworthy for their massive pillars, sculptures and stupas.
Access : Located 45km east of Mumbai city, the caves are 10 km from the Borivili railway station.

Nearest Petrol Pump:

HP Petrol Pump, Goregaon West: Located near SV Road, this is a convenient refueling stop for visitors to the western suburbs.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation:

Palms Hotel Tower and Villas
169 Aarey Milk Colony Gorega, Navi Mumbai, 400065

Imperial Palace Hotel
169 Aarey Milk Colony Goregaon Mumbai, 400065

Things to carry:

Comfortable walking shoes for exploring areas like Aarey and nearby locations. Sunscreen and hats to protect yourself from the sun during outdoor activities. Water bottles and snacks if you plan to explore areas like Aarey or the beach. Camera to capture urban and natural landscapes, especially near Versova Beach and Aarey.

Tips & Suggestions:

Visit the areas near the river, such as Aarey and Versova Beach, during the winter months (November to February) for the most pleasant weather. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season, as heavy rainfall often causes flooding along the river and nearby areas. Be mindful of the river’s polluted state, especially in urban sections, and avoid contact with the water.

Help Line/Phone Number:

Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Helpline:+91 22 1916

Mumbai Police Helpline: 100

Kaustabh Hospital Garments
4/401, Vanrai Colony, Opp.Nirlon,Off.W.E.High Way, Aarey Milk Colony, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400065

Mumbai Tourism Helpline:+91 22 2645 9945