Holi: BMC to take strict action against tree-cutting activities

This is practised in several residential pockets of the city and to keep a check on tree-cutting, strict measures will be taken, informed BMC officials

Mumbai The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Monday said that action will be taken against citizens for cutting or damaging trees during the Holi festival and have also appealed to Mumbaikars to preserve and protect them for the environment.

The BMC officials also maintained that these rules are not just to protect trees in public spaces but also for gated societies (Praful Gangurde)

Traditionally, on the eve of Holi, a pyre of wood and logs are burnt in the name of ‘Holika Dahan’. This is practised in several residential pockets of the city and to keep a check on tree-cutting, strict measures will be taken, informed BMC officials.

“Under the provisions of Maharashtra Trees Protection and Conservation Act, it is an offence to cut down any tree without the permission of local forest and tree authorities. If anybody is caught, that person can be imprisoned for seven days or one year and may also have to pay a penalty between ₹1,000 and ₹5,000, depending on the nature of the violation,” said a senior BMC official.

The officials said that at the municipal ward level, civic officials will keep a close eye on tree cutting activities with the help of surveillance teams. The BMC officials also maintained that these rules are not just to protect trees in public spaces but also for gated societies.

“During the last two years, no public gathering was allowed in Mumbai due to the pandemic. It’s quite evident that citizens will celebrate this time. Therefore, the BMC officials are staying extra vigilant to avoid any untoward incident,” said the official.