Responding to complaints, officials from the civic body’s G North ward inspected the site and issued a warning to the developer to remove the rods
Metal scaffolding around Mahim’s Paradise Cinema skewers a peepal tree; (right) Residents have decided to file a complaint with the Mumbai Police under the Tree Act, 1972, against those responsible. Pics/By Special Arrangement
Mahim residents have complained to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) about personnel from a construction site ramming iron rods into the trunks of nine old but healthy trees near Paradise Cinema on Bhagoji Keer Road.
Responding to complaints, officials from the civic body’s G North ward inspected the site and issued a warning to the developer to remove the rods. Recently, residents around the construction site noticed workers installing steel sheets and informed them not to damage the trees surrounding the compound wall of the plot, as the rods holding up the sheets would pass through the trees. Later, it was noticed that a peepal tree on the periphery of the plot was affected due to the work. A non-governmental organisation (NGO) complained to the BMC about the issue. After inspecting the site, the BMC issued a warning.
It is shocking that iron rods are piercing trees at construction sites. There are a number of requirements, flouting of which can incur fines. These are encasing the area with sheets to mitigate pollution, setting up safety nets to cordon off the site, and ensuring safety for passers-by. Watering down the place once again for anti-dust/pollution measures. There are other stipulations, too.
Let decision makers add protecting trees in the vicinity and ensuring no damage to the sparse green cover that we have as an important requirement while work is ongoing.
It is heartening that residents themselves were alert to the possibility that trees might be damaged and warned against it. In a city where brick ‘n’ mortar rules and any space is devoured quickly, trees need saviours and warriors. Let us protect them with all our might.
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