BMC Tree Authority Clears Removal of 251 Trees for BARC Road Project

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) Tree Authority on Tuesday approved a proposal to cut 251 trees and transplant 48 trees for a road connectivity project linking Old Mandala to New Mandala for the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).

The infrastructure project is being carried out by the Department of Atomic Energy to improve road connectivity between the Old Mandala and New Mandala areas.

Prior to granting approval, an advertisement regarding the tree-cutting and transplantation proposal was published in newspapers to invite suggestions and objections from the public. However, the civic body received no objections or suggestions from citizens regarding the move.

Under the conditions of the approved proposal, 2,211 new saplings will be planted in lieu of the 251 trees marked for felling and the 48 trees designated for replanting. The compensatory planting drive is required to be completed within 15 days from the date the trees are felled.

The Tree Authority has mandated specific conditions for the compensatory plantation. The newly planted trees must measure at least six feet in height and belong to local indigenous species.

Additionally, an undertaking has been officially submitted confirming that the replanted trees will be placed on the same land.