Mumbai's green cover under threat as healthy tree felled in Powai redevelopment

A healthy tree was cut down at a Powai redevelopment site on May 4, sparking concerns over illegal activity. Residents have raised alarms about the shrinking green cover in Mumbai as construction projects expand. The incident has led to calls for an official investigation into whether proper permissions were followed.

The tree was removed near the Ram Ashram bus stop, where redevelopment work is underway. Locals claim the felling may have been illegal, prompting demands for an immediate inquiry. Another mature tree on the same site now has its base buried under concrete, likely suffocating its roots and blocking water.

Pamela Cheema, a member of the Powai Area Welfare Association, has urged authorities to inspect the site without delay. She warned that the concrete covering could kill the remaining tree if not addressed. The case has also reignited discussions about Mumbai’s dwindling green spaces. Urban planners often cite the 3-30-300 rule as a benchmark for liveable cities. It suggests residents should see three trees from their homes, have 30% tree canopy cover in their neighbourhood, and live within 300 metres of a green space. Critics argue that rapid redevelopment is making these targets harder to meet.

The Powai incident has put pressure on officials to verify whether the tree cutting followed legal procedures. If confirmed, the loss of green cover could further strain Mumbai’s urban environment. Residents and activists are now pushing for stricter enforcement of tree protection laws.