BMC urges Mumbai housing societies to maintain trees, report weak branches

Residents and housing societies have been advised to check trees for warning signs, including cracks in trunks, trees leaning to one side. File Pic

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has urged residents and housing societies across Mumbai to maintain trees in their premises and promptly report potentially dangerous trees and weak branches to prevent tree-fall incidents.

In an appeal issued on Tuesday, the civic body stressed the importance of regular tree maintenance and adequate watering, particularly amid rising temperatures, changing weather conditions and water scarcity.

The BMC also advised residents to avoid using potable water for watering trees wherever possible and instead use treated, reusable water from sewage treatment plants (STPs), provided it is safe and suitable for the purpose.

BMC calls for judicious water use for tree maintenance

The civic body said housing societies should plan watering schedules based on the number of trees on their premises, their condition and their water requirements. Suitable and safe water available after other uses can also be used, provided the necessary precautions are taken.

It further stated that planned water use could help conserve water while ensuring that trees receive adequate care.

Trees play an important role in maintaining Mumbai's ecological balance by providing shade and helping improve air quality. The civic body has urged residents and housing society management committees to take responsibility for maintaining trees in their surroundings.

BMC asks residents to report dangerous trees, weak branches

The civic body has emphasised that watering alone is not enough to prevent trees and branches from falling, and that regular inspections and maintenance are equally important.

Residents and housing societies have been advised to check trees for warning signs, including cracks in trunks, trees leaning to one side, drying or weakened branches, and exposed roots.

The BMC has urged citizens to immediately report such signs to the civic body so that potentially dangerous trees and branches can be assessed and addressed in time.

Tree falls on four vehicles near Churchgate metro station, two injured

Earlier, during the monsoon season, a tree fell on four vehicles near B-2 Metro Station, opposite Kelan Bhavan in Churchgate, on August 17, leaving two people injured, according to preliminary information from the BMC.

The incident was reported to the C P Control at around 12:36 pm, following which the Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB), police and civic ward staff were mobilised to the spot.

Further details about the condition of the injured and the extent of damage to the vehicles are awaited.