Mumbai: Healthy Heritage Banyan Tree Allegedly Felled Outside Mithibai College In Vile Parle; Activist Seeks Probe, FIR

Mumbai, August 29, 2026 - A healthy heritage Banyan tree situated on the road outside Mithibai College in Vile Parle was allegedly cut down overnight, according to local activist Godfrey Pimenta. In a letter addressed to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) administration, Pimenta demanded an immediate investigation, identification of those responsible for the tree felling, and the filing of a First Information Report (FIR) against the perpetrators.

He emphasized the importance of adhering to mandatory procedures outlined in tree-protection laws and the need for strict accountability.

Pimenta raised concerns about potential lapses in the mandatory procedures under tree-protection laws during the felling of the Banyan tree at Mithibai College. He emphasized the necessity for an immediate probe and FIR, including verification of statutory permissions, identification of those who ordered and executed the felling, and details pertaining to the contractor involved.

Furthermore, he urged the preservation of CCTV footage and official records, such as permissions and inspection reports, and an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the tree's felling at approximately 2 am in the morning.

Pimenta has called for action against those responsible if the felling was found to be unauthorized or in violation of applicable laws. Chakrapani Alle, Assistant Municipal Commissioner of K West Ward, was not available for comment.