Supreme Court Stands Firm on Compensatory Afforestation in Mumbai

The Supreme Court issued a stern warning to the Maharashtra government regarding lax implementation of compensatory afforestation, crucial for projects like the Mumbai Metro Rail and Goregaon-Mulund Link Road. The court clearly stated it could revoke all previous tree-felling permissions if substantial remedial proposals aren't presented by November 11.

Chief Justice of India (CJI) B R Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran ordered the Maharashtra chief secretary to engage with stakeholders and craft a concrete plan demonstrating sincere efforts towards forestation. The court emphasized the necessity of balancing urban development with ecological preservation in metropolitan areas like Mumbai.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), seeking approval for tree felling related to the GMLR project, highlighted its need to cut over 1,000 trees. In response, the court demanded an affidavit by November 11, outlining specific actions to uphold compensatory afforestation commitments, acknowledging its importance in maintaining ecological integrity amid infrastructure development.