The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is set to issue a legal notice to a private developer for unauthorized tree cutting near the Mula-Ramnadi confluence zone in Baner. The incident, where several trees were felled without necessary permissions, has raised concerns among residents and environmental activists.
Unapproved Tree Cutting Incident:
An unauthorised tree-cutting incident has been brought to light in the Mula-Ramnadi confluence zone, involving a private developer who proceeded to cut down several trees without obtaining the required permissions from the PMC. This revelation has prompted the PMC to take legal action against the developer for violating environmental norms.
Concerns Raised by Residents and Environmentalists:
Residents of Baner and environmental activists have expressed their concerns over the unauthorized tree cutting. Sarang Wable, a Baner resident, emphasized the importance of preserving existing trees, especially those along riversides, as their removal could impact the ecosystem. Pushkar Kulkarni stressed the need for adherence to due procedures and legal protocols in any land-related activities.
Compensatory Action and Tree Plantation:
Ameya Jagtap, a member of the Balewadi Welfare Federation, highlighted the necessity of compensatory measures, stating that for every tree cut, three new trees must be planted. However, concerns were raised about the effectiveness of this practice, with questions about where the new trees are planted and who ensures their proper nurturing.
PMC’s Response and Legal Action:
Anil Sabale, PMC Tree Officer, confirmed that a legal notice would be sent to the concerned developer within two days after a thorough inspection of the area. It has been revealed that the developer proceeded with tree cutting without obtaining the relevant permissions and the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Garden department.
Environmental Conservation Calls for Urgent Action:
The incident underscores the growing challenge of conserving Pune’s green cover, with activists like Shailaja Deshpande, Founder of Jeevitnadi, stressing the importance of conserving, restoring, and protecting trees. Deshpande expressed concern about the rapid destruction of Pune’s existing green cover and highlighted the need for strategic planning to increase the city’s tree count.
