Mumbai launches AI-powered tree assessment project from Bandra’s Pali Hill

Mumbai to digitally map trees using AI and LiDAR technology (Pic/Special arrangement)

Mumbai on Friday launched a pilot project aimed at digitally assessing and monitoring trees in the city using artificial intelligence (AI) and LiDAR technology, with the initiative being rolled out in Bandra West's Pali Hill area.

An official statement said that the "Smart Tree Assessment Pilot Project" was flagged off in H/West Ward in the presence of Maharashtra minister Ashish Shelar, along with officials from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), arboriculture experts, and local residents.

According to officials, the project seeks to create a scientific database of street trees in the ward using vehicle-mounted LiDAR scanners capable of generating detailed three-dimensional digital models, or "digital twins," of trees. The exercise is expected to document tree species, approximate age, structural condition, GPS coordinates, and environmental benefits.

Maharashtra minister hails project

Speaking about the pilot project for tree monitoring, Shelar said that large trees form an important part of Mumbai's ecological heritage and stressed the need to use technology to improve conservation and management practices.

Shelar further noted that he had earlier observed the technology during the second International Arboriculture Conference held in March this year and supported introducing the pilot in his constituency.

Residents from the locality were also present during the launch ceremony and participated in a traditional coconut-breaking ritual marking the commencement of the project.

The pilot initiative has been incubated by the SMILE Council of the BMC, while Treecotech LLP, in collaboration with Greehill PTE, has been tasked with executing the project.

Officials, while briefing about the significance and the certifications of the project, said that certified arborists would verify the AI-generated findings to ensure accuracy.

The project is also expected to produce tree health reports, structural assessments, and maintenance recommendations that could help authorities identify potentially hazardous trees before accidents occur.

Describing the significance of the project, the statement also highlighted the scope of the project:

• Coverage: All street trees in H West Ward
• Technology: Vehicle-mounted LiDAR scanners to create digital twins of trees
• Validation: Certified arborists will verify AI outputs for accuracy
• Deliverables: 3D geotagged tree inventory with GPS coordinates, species, age, safety factors, and environmental benefits

Project likely to expand to other parts of Mumbai

The BMC further highlighted that the pilot has been designed with the possibility of expanding the model to other parts of Mumbai in the future if found effective.

Civic officials described the initiative as one of the first attempts in India to use AI and LiDAR technology for large-scale urban tree management and monitoring.

The event was also attended by BMC H/West Ward Assistant Commissioner Dinesh Pallewad, SMILE Council Chief for Business Development Shashi Bala, Deputy Superintendent of Gardens Dnyandev Mundhe, local councilor Swapna Mhatre, and officials from the civic garden department.