Pune's Greenery Vanishes: Young Trees Uprooted for Cables

Pune residents have called for an immediate moratorium on tree felling for infrastructure projects. This demand follows the recent cutting or uprooting of at least seven young trees, including native species, in Koregaon Park for underground electrical cable work. These trees were part of a community plantation initiative started in 2024, after 81 mature trees were felled along the same road. Residents reported that the recent removal occurred without adequate public notification or proper permissions. They noted the difficulty in nurturing the trees, which had begun to flourish, and expressed dismay at their destruction.

This incident has reignited concerns over the loss of greenery in the city. Previously, in December 2023, 81 mature trees were cut for road widening, and 56 transplanted trees reportedly did not survive due to inadequate methods. Residents and civic officials had planted approximately 50 native trees in April 2024, which had shown a high survival rate and even supported bird nesting. Experts argue that saplings cannot replace the ecological services of mature trees. An official from the local ward office stated they were unaware of the recent felling and had not granted permission, initiating an inquiry into the matter.

The situation highlights a recurring conflict between infrastructure development and environmental preservation in Pune. Residents are urging the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to review its tree protection strategies and implement a more sustainable approach to development. The lack of transparency and the perceived disregard for community efforts in maintaining greenery have fueled the demand for stricter regulations and a citywide stay on tree felling until a robust protection plan is established.