Pune: Outrage as PMC official skips tree cutting hearing, citizens fear dismissal of objections

In Pune, citizens who voiced objections to the proposed removal or transplantation of trees on Sinhagad Road for road widening were left infuriated after a crucial hearing was marred by the absence of Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) officials. Despite nearly 20 concerned citizens attending the scheduled hearing at the Sinhagad Road ward office, the assistant commissioner and tree authority representative failed to appear, raising fears that objections may be disregarded.

Ameet Singh, a city-based economist present at the meeting, expressed frustration, highlighting that the tree authority’s notice stipulated that non-attendance would be seen as a withdrawal of objections. He voiced concerns that the authorities’ absence could signal a tactic to dismiss objections, emphasizing the effort invested by citizens to make their concerns heard.

Tree activists emphasized the significance of the trees slated for removal, particularly highlighting the age and heritage value of one mahogany tree over 50 years old. Residents echoed these sentiments, underscoring the ecological importance of native species in the area’s ecosystem and lamenting the loss of ancient trees due to past road construction projects.

Another resident Uma Khare passionately defended the trees marked for cutting, portraying them as vital components of the local ecosystem that support diverse wildlife. She emphasized the ecological roles of the trees, from providing oxygen to serving as habitats for various species, and decried the disruption of the delicate web of life caused by their removal.

In response to the uproar, Assistant Municipal Commissioner Sandip Khalate clarified that the hearing’s postponement was due to his involvement in election-related duties. He assured citizens that the date and time of the next hearing would be communicated promptly, seeking to address concerns regarding the process.