Plans to improve an existing service road adjacent to the Eastern Freeway between Bhakti Park and Jijamata Chowk in south Mumbai have sparked controversy as they entail the felling of 316 trees and transplantation of 66 more. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued a notification regarding this development, raising concerns amidst a backdrop of the megacity’s dwindling greenery.
Project Details and Concerns
The proposed 4km-long service road, with a budget of Rs 62 crore allocated for its execution, aims to address the inadequacy of the existing road’s width. This initiative, necessitated by the handover of maintenance responsibilities from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to BMC, seeks to create a parallel road beneath the Eastern Freeway flyover. However, the scale of tree removal and transplantation has drawn scrutiny, especially in light of recent concerns raised by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) regarding Mumbai’s diminishing green cover.
Challenges and Mitigation Efforts
Officials cite the need for emergency vehicle access and adherence to urban development mandates as key drivers behind the expansion project. Nevertheless, concerns persist regarding the potential environmental impact and survival rates of transplanted trees. The BMC has appointed a project management consultant to map road alignments, emphasizing the importance of public input and adherence to regulatory protocols.
Environmental Repercussions
Recent data revealing the felling of over 21,000 trees between 2018 and 2023 for infrastructure projects underscores the gravity of the situation. Additionally, the low survival rate of transplanted trees in Mumbai poses a significant challenge, exacerbating concerns over pollution and environmental degradation. The NGT’s intervention underscores the urgent need for sustainable development practices and greater emphasis on preserving Mumbai’s green spaces amidst rapid urbanization.
