Pune Metro Expansion To Remove 2,386 Trees; Authorities Face Challenge Of Planting 41,000 Saplings
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Pune, April 7, 2026: The expansion of Pune Metro, aimed at improving urban connectivity and reducing travel time, is set to result in the felling of over 2,300 trees, raising serious environmental concerns.
According to officials, around 2,386 trees are likely to be removed as they obstruct various proposed metro extension routes. As per tree protection norms, MahaMetro will be required to plant nearly 41,000 trees as compensatory afforestation.
However, authorities are facing a major challenge in identifying adequate land for such large-scale plantation in the rapidly urbanising city. MahaMetro has reportedly reached out to multiple government agencies seeking suitable spaces, but availability remains limited.
Past experience has also raised concerns. During earlier metro phases, nearly 21,000 trees were planted, but a significant number failed to survive due to poor maintenance, lack of proper irrigation, and inadequate planning.
Environmental experts have cautioned that replacing mature trees with saplings cannot immediately compensate for the ecological loss. Large, decades-old trees contribute significantly to oxygen production, shade, and biodiversity—benefits that newly planted saplings take years to provide.
With space constraints and survival challenges, ensuring effective plantation and long-term maintenance is expected to be a key hurdle for authorities.
