Mumbai: The BMC's G South ward has lodged a police complaint against an unidentified person for the illegal damaging of 13 trees along Senapati Bapat Marg, adjacent to the Western Railway (WR) compound. The act was allegedly carried out to improve the visibility of a commercial hoarding, according to civic officials.
Complaint Filed Under Tree Act
The complaint, filed at NM Joshi Marg police station, cites violations under Sections 8 and 21 of the Maharashtra (Urban Areas) Protection and Preservation of Trees Act, 1975. The damaged trees include species such as Karanj, Tamhan, Shevar, and Tabebia.
Civic inspection finds 13 trees near WR compound in Mumbai mutilated to improve hoarding visibility | File Photo
Multiple Species Damaged
During a routine inspection on Wednesday, officials found that branches and tops of Karanj trees were cut, the upper portions of eight Tamhan trees were removed, and two Shevar and two Tabebia trees were entirely beheaded. Signs of poisoning were also observed on the Shevar trees.
WR Clarifies Role
"These were almost decade-old trees, and unfortunately, they have been beheaded possibly to clear the line of sight for a hoarding, An FIR will be filed pending court permission, said BMC official. However, WR official said that the issue is between the BMC and the advertising agency.
