BMC Faces Backlash Over Tree Removal

Mumbai: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has reopened the Marine Drive promenade, previously closed for Coastal Road construction, but the absence of trees has sparked criticism from environmentalists. The once lush promenade now presents a barren appearance, raising concerns about the city’s commitment to green spaces.

The promenade, spanning 1.07 km from G. D. Somani Chowk to the women’s hostel, was officially reopened by the BMC on Tuesday. Previously lined with greenery, the promenade now lacks a single tree, a stark contrast to its former verdant state. This change has not gone unnoticed by environmentalists, who argue that the removal of trees for the Coastal Road project has left a significant environmental impact.

Civic activists and environmentalists took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their frustration. Ketan Nardhani, a nature and wildlife enthusiast, tweeted that Marine Drive once boasted a significant number of trees. “Now, it’s a barren footpath. Where will citizens relax during the daytime when the sun is at its peak? The city is losing its green cover.”

Similarly, environmental activist Zoru Bhathena wrote, “You have removed 163 beautiful trees from Marine Drive to build your Coastal Road tunnels and haven’t replanted a single tree.” As per the plan, a total of 163 trees were to be removed and another 38 trees may be retained.

The iconic 3.6 km Marine Drive stretch, known as ‘Queen’s Necklace’ for its aerial view, has been a popular spot for walkers and tourists alike. However, it had been partially closed for the past four years to facilitate the Coastal Road construction. The BMC completed the necessary work along this stretch and reopened it to the public on June 10.

Despite the reopening, a senior BMC official noted that work on adequate lighting is still ongoing. Additionally, the installation of tetrapods, designed to mitigate the impact of sea waves, is in its final stages. These measures are part of the broader Coastal Road project aimed at improving the city’s infrastructure and connectivity.

The BMC also undertook the widening of a road between Princes Street flyover and Mafatlal Junction by 10.56 metres. Approximately 1 km of this expanded road is now available to motorists, providing easy access to the northbound tunnel of the Coastal Road. This development is expected to alleviate traffic congestion in the area.

However, the absence of trees on the reopened promenade has overshadowed these infrastructural improvements. Environmentalists have voiced their concerns, emphasising the importance of maintaining urban greenery for ecological balance and aesthetic value. They argue that the removal of trees not only affects the environment but also diminishes the charm of Marine Drive, a historic and iconic part of Mumbai.

As the BMC continues to work on lighting and tetrapod installations, there is a growing call for the replanting of trees to restore the promenade’s former beauty and environmental health. The situation highlights the ongoing tension between urban development and environmental conservation in one of India’s largest cities.