BMC calls meeting to discuss tree mishap; why now, ask residents
Mumbai Even as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has called for a meeting with tree experts on Thursday to discuss ways to avoid mishaps like the one at Nariman Point, residents and environment groups in the city feel it is too little, too late.
“Why did the BMC wait for such an incident to happen? Preventive measures such as trimming and pruning should have been undertaken before the monsoon,” said N N Naik, general secretary of NGO National Society of the Friends of Trees. Anandini Thakoor, managing trustee of the Khar Resident’s Association, said, “The BMC promises action but they don’t follow up. Many trees in Khar are overburdened and we’ve lodged complaints with the BMC, but to no avail. I won’t be surprised if one of those trees falls too.”
NGOs have come forward to help the BMC inspect and monitor trees in the city, if needed. Sumaira Abdulali, Convenor, Awaaz Foundation, said, “The problem is that the Tree Authority has the funds to take action but is severely understaffed. If we are approached by the BMC for help, we are ready to participate.” Another NGO, I Love Mumbai, headed by Nana Chudasma, also pledged its support to the civic body.
However, Naik said he was skeptical about such a system. “When I was in the Tree Authority a few years ago, we had proposed the deployment of Green Guards who would perform area-wise and ward-wise inspection of trees. This proposal was accepted and we had put up names of many of our NGO members which were accepted. But they were not given any responsibilities and the plan fell through,” he said.
However, some resident associations which have an Asset Liability Management system with the BMC insist that the civic body is proactive. “Whenever we have any tree-related problems, we contact the horticulturist of our area and he’s always prompt. Pruning and trimming is undertaken regularly with the assistance of the BMC,” said Indrani Malkani, Honorary Secretary, Malabar Hill Resident’s Association.