- Bombay High Court Halts Tree Cutting on Ganeshkhind Road: The recent stay order issued by the Bombay High Court has put a temporary halt on the cutting of trees on Ganeshkhind Road. This decision came after it was discovered that the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) had violated the Maharashtra Tree Act by allowing the felling of 192 trees without proper consideration of public objections.
- Violation of Legal Procedures: The PMC’s decision to grant permissions for tree cutting on the same day objections were due raised concerns about transparency and compliance with legal provisions. This rushed process led to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by environmental group Parisar, economist Ameet Singh, and civic activist Hema Chari.
- Court’s Instructions to PMC: In response to the PIL, the Chief Justice and Justice Arif Doctor of the Bombay High Court instructed the PMC to redo the entire process, re-issue notices, and reconsider objections. The Court’s firm stance highlighted the importance of following legal procedures and ensuring public participation in such decisions.
- Small Victory for Environmental Advocates: Despite the challenges faced in protecting trees in Pune, the recent plantation of 5,015 trees has been seen as a small victory for environmental advocates. However, concerns about compliance and transparency remain as over 32,600 compensatory plantations are still required for ongoing projects in the city.
- Stricter Monitoring Demanded: Activists are calling for stricter monitoring of tree cutting activities and a halt to new permissions until existing commitments for compensatory plantations are fulfilled. The balance between development and sustainability in Pune is at stake, and the actions taken by legal authorities and public vigilance will play a crucial role in preserving the city’s green cover and ecological heritage.
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