BMC ensures no tree falls at Malabar Hill walkway as monsoon approaches

The elevated walkway at Malabar Hill, has seen over a lakh visitors since its recent opening. Pic/Atul Kamble

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) will appoint a contractor to prevent tree falls in the vicinity of the newly opened Malabar Hill walkway during the monsoon. An official from the BMC's garden department said, "As the walkway is witnessing good footfall, it is necessary to take care of the trees around the elevated nature trail, most of which are a century old, and carry out regular surveillance. Hence, we have decided to appoint a special contractor for this purpose."

"This contractor will be tasked with cutting and disposing of dead and potentially dangerous trees, trimming and pruning of branches, and removing fruit and fronds. Measures will also be taken to save trees that are unbalanced or in danger. A supervisor will also be present at the spot around the clock to monitor the situation," the official added. "We will make sure tree trimming is done scientifically, and a survey of trees will be conducted in the presence of a horticulture expert," the official added.

The Malabar Hill walkway was opened on March 30 and has been a crowd-puller, seeing more than 1.10 lakh visitors so far. Officials believe that during the monsoon, the footfall will be the same as that seen during the summer vacation due to the natural vibe of the walkway, which is surrounded by a dense tree cover. The walkway is open between 5 am and 8 pm. Visits are conducted in 16 daily slots, and up to 200 people can visit the elevated trail in a single slot.