Pune: PMC Urges Citizens To Avoid Cutting Trees, Burning Wood For Holika Dahan

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has appealed to citizens not to cut trees for Holi celebrations and has warned that police complaints will be registered against those involved in the illegal cutting of trees for the festival.

The PMC Garden department has released an advisory, alerting and urging citizens to celebrate responsibly. In the notice, the civic body highlighted that citizens would be able to lodge complaints on toll-free number 18001030222 and WhatsApp number 9689900002.

The warning has been issued under the Maharashtra (Urban Areas) Protection and Preservation of Trees Act, 1975 and 2021, said an official.

PMC Garden Department Head Ashok Ghorpade, said, "During Holika Dahan, devotees light a wood pyre to make offerings. But as per the law, it is a punishable crime. The PMC would fine defaulters up to ₹1 lakh and urges the citizens to celebrate Holi in an eco-friendly manner and report any incidents of unauthorised tree cutting."

The appeal aligns with the broader efforts of PMC to promote sustainable urban living and protect Pune’s environment.

"Trees are our companions; life depends on them. We request Pune’s citizens to celebrate Holi responsibly and protect the city’s green cover," added Ghorpade.

With Holika Dahan scheduled on March 13, the authorities have urged Punekars not to burn wood - a ritual that is part of Holi celebrations - as it worsens the city’s air quality.