The Bombay High Court (HC) has placed the responsibility of deconcretizing trees in Mumbai on the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The civic body must ensure that necessary steps are taken to address the issue of concretization adversely affecting tree roots and bases across the city, the court has directed.
This decision comes in response to a public interest lawsuit filed by Rohit Joshi, a tree activist from Thane. Joshi had demanded the deconcretization of tree roots and bases in Thane. He also sought compensation for victims of tree accidents. The court has allowed Joshi to amend the lawsuit, including the BMC as a party.
Additionally, the High Court has ordered the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) to monitor and complete the deconcretization work within a period of 45 days. As part of this process, the TMC has been directed to establish an email address and helpline where residents can report areas requiring deconcretization.
Joshi has raised concerns about the number of trees that remain to be deconcretized in Thane. TMC has reported that 7,396 trees are to be deconcretized, but Joshi argues that this figure represents a smaller number of trees requiring attention.
The deconcretization process follows regulations set by the TMC. It mandates the removal of concrete within a 3-by-3-foot area around each tree. This space is then to be filled with soil. This allows the roots to access the necessary nutrients and moisture.
During the proceedings, the High Court also highlighted the National Green Tribunal's efforts in 2015 to preserve trees and protect the environment. The court emphasised the relevance of the Maharashtra (Urban Areas) Protection and Preservation of Trees Act, 1975. It applies to the BMC and imposes similar duties on the municipal corporation under the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai Act, 1888.
The next hearing on the matter has been scheduled for August 1.
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