Mumbai Gears Up for Comprehensive Tree Census
In a strategic initiative to reassess the city’s tree population, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to conduct a fresh tree census. The exercise, typically carried out every five years by the Garden Department, is expected to provide updated insights into Mumbai’s green cover. The last such census, conducted in 2018, recorded approximately 33.7 lakh trees, with 4 lakh trees situated in Aarey. Given the city’s recent afforestation efforts, officials anticipate a rise in the overall count.
A senior official from the Garden Department revealed that the civic body will soon float a tender to appoint an expert agency comprising arborists and environmental scientists for the task. “Over the last few years, we have planted around 5 lakh Miyawaki saplings, and their survival rate has been encouraging. We are optimistic that Mumbai’s tree count has surpassed the previous 34 lakh mark,” the official stated. The Miyawaki technique, a Japanese method of dense forestation, has been extensively adopted across Mumbai since January 2020, leading to the creation of 78 mini forests. These plantations include native species such as Anjan, Bel, Amla, Gunj, Arjun, and Sonchafa, strengthening the city’s ecological resilience. The 2018 tree census had revealed a higher number of native species compared to exotic varieties, with native trees such as Taman, Tamarind, Ashoka, Neem, Peepal, and Cashew dominating the landscape.
Exotic species, including Rainforest trees, Gulmohar, and Peltophorum, were also found in significant numbers. The last census, which cost over ₹2.5 crore, took four years to complete and was conducted using a Geographic Information System (GIS). The GIS-based approach assigned a unique identification number to each tree, enabling precise monitoring and management. The upcoming census is expected to follow a similar methodology to ensure accuracy.
Green Density Across Mumbai’s Wards
As per the 2018 census, Ghatkopar (N Ward) had the highest tree count, standing at 2.92 lakh, followed by Malad (P North) with 2.84 lakh trees and Bhandup (S Ward) with 2.54 lakh trees. Chembur (M West) and Goregaon (P South) also featured prominently in the rankings. Conversely, Marine Lines-Kalbadevi (C Ward) and Masjid-Dongri (B Ward) recorded the lowest tree densities, with just 5,756 and 7,816 trees, respectively. As Mumbai continues its rapid urban expansion, the forthcoming tree census will serve as a crucial tool in evaluating the city’s green sustainability efforts and ensuring a balanced ecological future.
