Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has announced plans to uproot 961 trees to facilitate ongoing development projects across its jurisdiction. Out of these, 903 trees are slated for replantation in alternative locations, while the remaining trees are deemed unsuitable for transplantation.
Amid escalating concerns over environmental conservation, there is mounting pressure on authorities to enhance tree plantation efforts to counterbalance the ecological impact of such developments. Environmentalists and community advocates are actively raising awareness about the importance of preserving green cover and promoting sustainable practices. PCMC’s rationale for tree removal primarily revolves around clearing obstacles for road development initiatives under its eight zonal offices and within industrial zones. Additionally, several private landowners have sought permits to remove trees on their properties for domestic purposes, prompting the municipal corporation to address these requests accordingly.
The identified trees earmarked for removal encompass a variety of species, including pimpal, coconut, neem, mango, ashok, and gulmohar, each contributing to the local biodiversity and environmental stability. Environmental experts caution that the process of replanting trees can often lead to a shortened lifespan for the transplanted specimens. When trees are uprooted and relocated, they undergo significant stress, affecting their long-term viability and growth potential. To mitigate this impact, experts recommend a proactive approach, advocating for the planting of at least double the number of new trees to compensate for those being removed.
Despite the concerns raised by environmentalists, PCMC’s Parks Department has proceeded with its tree removal plans, inviting public objections through written submissions. However, the municipal corporation asserts that no formal objections have been lodged by environmental advocates or concerned citizens thus far. As PCMC navigates the delicate balance between urban development imperatives and environmental sustainability, stakeholders emphasize the need for conscientious planning and robust mitigation strategies to preserve green spaces and mitigate ecological disruptions in the region.
