Mumbai Tree Authority Clears Removal Of 128 Trees For CSMT Makeover, Opposition Questions Their Age
Mumbai: A total of 128 trees coming in the way of the redevelopment of mega Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) will be removed soon as the Mumbai Tree Authority on Friday sanctioned the proposal submitted by the Railway Land Development Authority (RLDA). Of 128 affected trees located towards P D'mello Road, 56 will be permanently cut and 72 will be transplanted. Against this, the RLDA…
Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) is set to undergo a significant makeover, clearing the way for the removal of 128 trees blocking its development. The Mumbai Tree Authority has granted approval for this controversial decision, which will see 56 trees permanently cut down and 72 transplanted to make way for the Rs 2,400 crore redevelopment project.
However, the opposition has raised questions about the age of these trees, alleging they are over 50 years old and therefore heritage status, which would prevent their removal. The CSMT, originally built in 1888, has undergone three major redevelopment phases since then, prompting the BMC garden department to argue that most affected trees are between 40-50 years old.
Despite this, the opposition remains skeptical, suggesting the trees' age may have been misrepresented to facilitate the development. Meanwhile, conservationists warn that transplanted trees often struggle to survive, casting doubt on the long-term impact of this tree removal strategy.
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