Approval for the removal and transplantation of 1,080 trees has been granted by Mumbai’s Tree Authority to facilitate a series of major infrastructure and redevelopment projects across the city. The decision was taken during a meeting of the authority, where proposals related to the Chedda Nagar–Anand Nagar elevated corridor, the Motilal Nagar redevelopment project, and redevelopment works in Bandra were considered and approved.
A significant portion of the affected trees has been linked to the proposed elevated corridor between Chedda Nagar in Ghatkopar and Anand Nagar in Thane. The project has been designed to improve connectivity and reduce travel time for commuters travelling between Mumbai and Thane. During surveys conducted along the alignment, 1,331 trees were identified. Of these, 621 trees were found to be located within the project pathway. According to the approved proposal, 218 trees are to be permanently felled, while 403 trees are to be transplanted to alternative locations.
At the Motilal Nagar redevelopment site in Goregaon, inspections were carried out over multiple phases between December 2025 and April 2026. A total of 1,761 trees were recorded during these surveys. Within the redevelopment alignment, 220 trees were identified as being affected. Under the approved plan, 89 trees are to be cut, while 131 trees are to be relocated through transplantation. A further 239 trees have been identified as likely to be impacted by redevelopment projects being undertaken in Bandra. Together, these projects account for the total number of trees approved for removal or transplantation by the authority.
The approvals were granted despite objections being raised by members of the opposition during deliberations. Particular concern was expressed regarding the impact of the elevated corridor project along the Eastern Express Highway. It was argued that a substantial number of mature trees would be lost and that greater emphasis should have been placed on transplantation rather than permanent felling. Questions were also raised regarding the future handling and disposal of timber generated from the affected trees.
In response, presentations were reportedly made by the concerned departments outlining the necessity of the projects and the measures that had been incorporated to reduce environmental impact. It was maintained that the project alignments had been planned carefully and that transplantation had been proposed wherever feasible. The elevated corridor project was highlighted as a long-standing demand from residents and commuters. It was argued that substantial traffic relief and improved connectivity would be achieved once the infrastructure is completed.
With the approvals now in place, the way has been cleared for the implementation of these major urban development initiatives. However, concerns regarding the balance between infrastructure growth and environmental preservation are expected to continue as the projects move forward.