Navi Mumbai: The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has taken strict action against a Belapur-based restaurant for decorating trees with electric lights, a move that violates municipal environmental regulations. Pawan Restaurant and Bar, located in Sector 3, Belapur, was fined Rs 10,000 after it was found to have installed lighting on trees outside its premises.
This action was carried out by the Belapur Zonal Flying Squad under the supervision of Assistant Commissioner and Zonal Officer Dr. Amol Palve, and under the guidance of Garden Department Deputy Commissioner (Zone 1) Mr. Kishanrao Palande.
The fine was imposed in accordance with Resolution No. 7461 dated January 27, passed by the NMMC Tree Authority, which prohibits harmful activities such as nailing advertisements onto trees or installing electric lighting. The Tree Authority has made it clear that any individual, organization, or business found damaging trees in this manner will be fined Rs 10,000 per tree.
Municipal officials reiterated that such practices harm both the trees and the surrounding environment. They urged the public and business owners to avoid these violations to prevent facing strict penalties in the future. A special enforcement drive is also being planned across all municipal zones to monitor and curb such activities.
In a separate enforcement action, the Anti-Plastic Flying Squad of Zone II, under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner Dr. Kailas Gaikwad, seized 100 grams of banned plastic bags from Asha Pura Kirana Stores in Sector 8, Airoli. The store was fined Rs 5,000 for possession of the prohibited material.
The NMMC confirmed that these enforcement activities will continue regularly, with the aim of protecting the environment and maintaining civic discipline across the city.
