Now Reading: 102 trees to be cut for Dombivli sports complex upgrade
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102 trees to be cut for Dombivli sports complex upgrade
The redevelopment of the Savlaram Maharaj Mhatre Sports Complex in Dombivli into a world-class facility has led to the felling of 102 trees, sparking protests from environmental activists. The complex, in the…
The redevelopment of the Savlaram Maharaj Mhatre Sports Complex in Dombivli into a world-class facility has led to the felling of 102 trees, sparking protests from environmental activists. The complex, in the Dombivli MIDC area, is being upgraded with modern amenities for athletes.
Activist Raju Nalavade alleged that small and large trees were cut and demanded an independent inquiry, questioning why the green cover could not have been preserved through design changes. Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders have submitted a complaint to the local police station seeking action.
MIDC deputy engineer Vijay Dharmapurkar said the felling followed due process, including a hearing and objection period. The tree authority granted permission on condition that 1,414 trees be planted on MIDC-reserved land as compensation. Of 157 trees on site, 24 will be transplanted and 31 left untouched.
Indian Opinion Analysis
The conflict between urban infrastructure and tree cover is a recurring flashpoint in Mumbai's satellite cities. The Maharashtra Tree Authority Act requires compensatory planting at a ratio typically 1:10 for felled trees, but survival rates of transplanted trees are often low. Activists will be watching the MIDC's compliance with the 1,414-plantation condition. The next flashpoint could be when the civic body seeks permission for similar projects: the number of trees felled per sporting facility will be a key benchmark.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
