Home / Environment / Pune Tree Transplant Fiasco: Many Die After Road Project
Pune Tree Transplant Fiasco: Many Die After Road Project
24 Oct
Summary
- Citizens claim 45 of 109 transplanted trees died.
- PMC transplanted more trees than permitted for road widening.
- Disagreement exists over actual number of trees transplanted.
A significant controversy has emerged in Pune concerning the transplantation of trees for a road-widening project along the Koregaon Park Annexe road. Approximately 18 months after the initiative began, citizens are disputing the Pune Municipal Corporation's (PMC) account of tree relocation and survival rates.
Citizens claim that out of 109 trees transplanted, a staggering 45 have perished. They also allege that fewer trees were actually moved than promised, with many left to die at their original locations after their canopies were severely trimmed. This contradicts the PMC's assertion that more trees were transplanted than originally permitted.
PMC officials stated that while 193 trees were involved in the project, 108 were approved for felling and 85 for transplantation. However, they transplanted 109 trees, including some earmarked for felling, to save them. Despite admitting that 45 transplanted trees died, including two old rubber trees aged over 50, officials cited technical issues and root system differences for the failures, while assuring regular watering.
Residents have presented photographic evidence showing trees with pruned canopies whose roots were not even disturbed, challenging the narrative of successful transplantation. They are calling for accountability, demanding to know the final destinations and survival rates of the transplanted trees. This situation has raised concerns about future projects, with citizens advocating for alternative road designs that prioritize preserving mature trees.
