BMC urges citizens to observe Holika with responsibility
Youngsters of RS Mandal from BDD Chawl, Worli, have created this 35-foot effigy representing the evil of terrorism to be burned for Holika Dahan today. Pic/Ashish Raje
Ahead of the celebration of Holika, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has urged citizens to use dry wood for burning the bonfire, and help celebrate the festival responsibly. It is illegal to cut tree branches without BMC’s prior permission. Dry firewood that is available in the market can be procured by citizens for the Holika bonfire.
BMC’s stance
It is illegal to cut any tree branches without prior permission of the BMC. According to the Maharashtra (urban areas) Tree Preservation and Protection Act, no trees can be cut without prior permission of the local municipal corporation. Tree cutting is a punishable offence, and can result in a fine and even imprisonment up to one year. “The gardens department is on alert throughout the year, and especially around times when the demand for firewood goes up, such as before Holika,” said a civic official.
Environmentalists speak
Zoru Bathena
Dry branches are required for any bonfire. It is not possible to cut fresh branches within a day and burn them immediately. They will not burn into a full-fledged bonfire. There are several dealers of wood across the city. There is a shop in Bandra that only sells firewood, and anyone can purchase it. Several housing societies that observe Holika can source branches this way. Over the months leading to Holi, if branches from trees collapse in private premises, these can be stored and used for the Holika bonfire. However, there are other environmental concerns surrounding the bonfire, such as smoke, which need more attention.”
Stalin D
It is common for vendors or those looking to make money by selling firewood ahead of the festival to start axing branches a few days before. This is more common on service roads along highways in the suburbs. You will spot many tempos loading tree branches on highways. Of course, this is illegal.
Vendor speaks
An authorised vendor said, “The demand goes up during Holi. We source it from authorised suppliers, who include authorised contractors for projects that require cutting of trees or felling of branches, both in Mumbai, as well as MMR.”
Citizen complaints
BMC control room helpline: 1916
Penalty: Fine up to Rs 1 lakh and imprisonment up to 3 years
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