The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has intensified its efforts to safeguard Mumbai’s residents from the inherent risks posed by the city’s verdant canopy. The civic body has circulated advisories across various sectors, urging Mumbaikars to exercise caution and avoid taking shelter under trees during heavy rains and thunderstorms.
This warning comes after the BMC’s extensive pre-monsoon preparations, which included a thorough survey and the pruning of potentially hazardous trees throughout Mumbai. Despite these proactive measures, the Parks Department underscores the continued danger, advising citizens to refrain from seeking refuge beneath trees and to avoid parking vehicles in their vicinity during inclement weather.
Mumbai’s urban landscape boasts an impressive 2,975,000 trees, with 186,246 adorning the city’s roads. The BMC has proactively issued notices to approximately 7,034 establishments, both private and government-owned, mandating timely tree trimming. Collaborative efforts with Central and Western Railways have resulted in the pruning of 2,424 trees across 52 locations, focusing on critical areas such as Ghatkopar, Vidyavihar, and Wadala. Moreover, 482 out of 502 identified dead, infested, and structurally compromised trees have been removed to mitigate risks.
Additional Municipal Commissioner (Eastern Suburbs), Amit Saini, has directed all relevant agencies to maintain heightened vigilance and ensure readiness throughout the monsoon period. The Parks Department has adopted a scientific approach to prune the most precarious trees in Mumbai, aligning with the city’s comprehensive safety strategy.
A senior civic official highlighted the peril of tree falls and branch breakages during severe weather conditions, stressing the importance of public adherence to the advisory. To bolster community awareness, the BMC has distributed informative leaflets citywide. Residents who identify dangerous trees within their premises or housing societies are encouraged to contact the Park Department at their respective ward levels or dial 1916 to lodge complaints.
This monsoon, the BMC’s proactive measures and public advisories aim to significantly reduce the risk of tree-related incidents, ensuring a safer environment for all Mumbaikars. The community’s cooperation is pivotal in mitigating these natural hazards and maintaining urban safety during the rainy season.
