Trees axed in Wankhade revamp

The Rs275 crore revamp work at Wankhede stadium might have given the 33-year-old stadium a face-lift, but it has put in distress more than 250 trees existing in the precinct.

Figures from the tree authority reveal that the swanky two-year-long renovation of the stadium to host the World Cup led to the axing of numerous trees and shrubs.

The majority of these were on the plush Mumbai university ground, while over 15 trees were felled near the renovated stands in the stadium.

A report on the number of trees planted and chopped was demanded by the tree authority from the Mumbai cricket association (MCA). Moreover, records from the garden department state that back in July 2008, 41 trees were removed.

An additional 36 trees were chopped down in 2009. The variety of trees ranged from coconut, Ashoka, mango, neem, palm, fig and Gulmohar.

"During the revamping and construction of a structure, a plan is submitted to the tree authority declaring the number of trees which will be felled," said an official from the tree authority.

Under the Maharashtra protection and preservation of tree act, 1975, after completion of work, double the number of trees removed should be re-planted.

The tree authority has served the MCA a 60-day notice period to replace the cut trees. The MCA has agreed to plant 94 trees, in addition to the existing 80 trees, said the official. In addition, 17 trees are slated to be transplanted in the stadium's vicinity.

"Due to provisions for parking amenities and other facilities in the renovated structure, the MCA has agreed to plant the trees in the university ground," the official added.

The MCA has been asked to plant trees of the same species and not less than five feet. Another site inspection will be taken after the final World Cup tournament to monitor the situation. However officials from the MCA refused to comment on the matter.