HC quizzes BMC on missing trees

However,in a hearing granted to the petitioners by the corporation,the Assistant Commissioner D-Ward pointed out that the missing trees,which were mainly standing on private premises,might have fallen during the last three monsoon seasons. The petitioners have suggested that the trees,which are on the carriageway of the road as a result of widening,should neither be cut nor be transplanted but should be retained and only two lanes on either side of the central median should be allowed for moving traffic. Petitioners state that the third lane should accommodate these trees,and can intermittently be used for parking as well as for bus stops.

However,corporation states that this proposal is technically flawed due to various reasons.

Sahgal in his affidavit filed on Tuesday stated that they are not opposed to the widening of Nepean Sea Road. “However,the petitioners believe that the locality needs residential area planning that prioritizes smooth traffic flow,pedestrian comfort,public transport such as taxi stands and bus shelters,whilst protecting,to the maximum extent possible,the character of the neighbourhood,particularly the verdant surrounds,” the affidavit stated.

Specifying that they are just concerned about losing the tree cover in the area,Sahgal said,“A six-lane road here will only add up to the traffic congestion. Instead,we can simply have a four-lane road,plus two service lanes on each side where vehicles can stop in case of a breakdown.” Sahgal said all that the residents wanted was to work in agreement with the BMC on the issue.