Probe Demanded After Heritage Banyan Tree Felled Outside Mithibai College in Vile Parle

A healthy heritage Banyan tree located on the road outside Mithibai College in Vile Parle was allegedly felled at midnight, prompting demands for an official investigation and police action.

Local activist Godfrey Pimenta flagged the incident on August 29, 2026, in a formal letter submitted to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) administration and the police. Pimenta alleged that the mature tree was cut down in the middle of the night, raising concerns that mandatory procedures required under tree-protection laws may have been bypassed.

In his letter, Pimenta called for an immediate inquiry and the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against those responsible for the felling. He stressed the need for strict accountability, urging authorities to identify both the individuals who ordered the removal and the personnel who executed the cutting.

The activist has also sought comprehensive details regarding any contractor involved in the operation, along with the verification of all statutory permissions to confirm whether the act had received formal administrative clearance.

Pimenta specifically questioned the timing of the incident, demanding an explanation as to why the tree was felled at around 2 am. To aid the investigation, he urged authorities to secure and preserve relevant CCTV footage from the surrounding area, as well as all official documentation, including inspection reports and permissions.

Pimenta emphasized that strict action must be initiated against the responsible parties if the felling is verified to be unauthorised or carried out in violation of applicable laws.

Chakrapani Alle, Assistant Municipal Commissioner of K West Ward, was not available for comment regarding the complaint.