In preparation for the upcoming monsoon season, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has been actively engaged in trimming trees to mitigate potential hazards.
With a target of pruning one lakh trees before June 7, the BMC has already completed nearly 20 percent of its pre-monsoon pruning works, having trimmed approximately 22,334 large and dangerous trees. The civic body has taken proactive measures to ensure public safety by identifying and pruning trees that pose risks to life and property during heavy monsoon winds. Notably, the BMC has issued notices to 4,909 government and private establishments, urging them to undertake necessary trimming works to prevent any untoward incidents. However, the pruning works have encountered obstacles, particularly due to vehicles parked beneath the trees hindering the operations. To address this challenge, the BMC has appealed to residents to promptly remove parked vehicles obstructing the pruning process, thus minimizing financial losses and ensuring efficient execution of the pruning works. In its endeavor to enhance safety measures, the BMC conducted a survey of 1.86 lakh large trees within its jurisdiction, identifying one lakh roadside trees earmarked for scientific trimming by June 7. Despite the proactive approach adopted by the BMC, there have been concerns raised by civic activists and residents regarding the pruning activities.
Notably, the BMC has sought cooperation from the Mumbai Police to facilitate the pruning process amidst instances of resistance from activists and environmentalists. This collaboration underscores the importance of collective efforts in ensuring public safety and effective management of urban infrastructure during adverse weather conditions. As the monsoon season approaches, the BMC remains committed to its goal of safeguarding citizens and minimizing risks associated with tree-related incidents, thereby reinforcing its role as a responsible civic authority dedicated to ensuring the well-being of Mumbai’s residents.
