Pune: Row Erupts In Camp After Decades-Old Tree Cut On East Street; Cantonment Board Cites Safety Reasons
Pune: Row Erupts In Camp After Decades-Old Tree Cut On East Street; Cantonment Board Cites Safety Reasons
Pune, April 22, 2026: A major controversy has broken out in Pune’s Camp area after a long-standing tree was cut down on East Street early Tuesday morning, drawing sharp reactions from local residents and raising questions about transparency.
The tree, located opposite Universal and Thakker House societies, had stood for decades and was considered an important source of shade, especially during the ongoing summer heat. Its sudden removal has led to allegations from residents, who suspect the action may have been taken to benefit nearby commercial establishments.
Locals claimed that the tree appeared healthy and was removed without prior notice or visible inspection. Several residents expressed concern over the timing, stating that the cutting was carried out early in the morning, which has further fuelled suspicions. Some alleged that the move may have been intended to improve visibility or access for businesses operating in the vicinity.
The incident has also reignited concerns about diminishing green cover in the Camp area, along with allegations regarding the commercial use of defence land.
However, the Pune Cantonment Board (PCB) has rejected these claims, stating that the decision to remove the tree was based solely on public safety considerations. According to officials from the board’s garden department, the tree had been damaged after being hit by a vehicle during the early hours of Tuesday.
Authorities said a large branch had fallen onto East Street, posing a risk to commuters. The fire brigade was called around 3 am to clear the obstruction. Following an assessment, the decision was taken later in the morning to remove the tree completely to prevent further danger.
The PCB also clarified that the action was not influenced by any private business or individual.
Despite these explanations, residents remain dissatisfied and have demanded greater clarity. They have called for access to CCTV footage, official reports, and an independent evaluation of the tree’s condition prior to its removal.
Environmental concerns have also been raised, with activists pointing out the importance of mature trees in regulating urban temperatures. They argue that alternatives such as pruning or structural support could have been explored instead of cutting down the entire tree.
The incident has once again put the functioning of the cantonment board under scrutiny, with citizens demanding stricter oversight on tree removal and better communication from authorities.
As the debate continues, the East Street controversy underscores the ongoing tension between urban development, commercial interests, and environmental conservation in Pune’s cantonment areas.
