Mumbai: At least three trucks unloaded construction debris in Aarey Forest, Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP), on Wednesday evening, environmental activists said, adding that by Thursday morning, an area of approximately 6,700 sq ft of land had been levelled with the debris and soil.
Activists Allege Violation Of Forest Laws
Amrita Bhattacharjee, who had gone to the spot along with the local residents (tribals) said, “The illegal dumping has taken place in the Aarey Forest area from 4:06 pm to 4:21 pm on Wednesday. While tribals living in the area said that dumping has been going on since Sunday, October 29. This is a gross violation of the Forest Act 1927 and Forest Conservation Act 1980.”
Contractor Claimed Permission, But None Granted For Dumping
“The contractor insisted that they have permission from the forest department to carry on the work. However, the permission letter accessed by us shows no permission for dumping a truckload of soil. This is to change the topography of the area and we are afraid, this will damage the fragile ecology of the forest,” Bhattacharjee said.
Photo Credits - Amrita Bhattacharjee
She added that Panchama was made by a range forest officer, which stated that 30 mt x 30 mt of area and a height of 1.5 mts of land was levelled with debris.
Forest Department Confirms Violation, Assures Action
Range Forest Officer Pradeep Chavan said, “The contractor had taken permission for film shooting. However, no permission was taken for levelling the ground. The debris dumping is illegal and pachanama is made. Action will be taken against the contractor.”
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Photo Credits - Amrita Bhattacharjee
Residents Say Dumping Continues Despite Complaints
Another resident Nishant Bangera said, “There is huge dumping happening in the forested area of SGNP, destroying the topography of the region. Despite complaints, no one has taken any action."
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