On the occasion of Holi festivity, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued a warning to take punitive action against the citizens cutting down the trees for the tradition of Holika Dahan.
According to BMC officials, any unauthorised tree felling will result in strict legal action, including the possibility of imprisonment. The corporation has invoked Section 21 of the Maharashtra (Urban Areas) Tree Conservation and Development Act, 1975, which prohibits tree felling without prior permission from the Tree Authority.
Officials further stated that any instances of unauthorized tree felling should be promptly reported to the authorities. Vigilant individuals are encouraged to inform the BMC or local police stations, or contact the toll-free number '1916' of the civic body in case of any violations.
Under Section 21 of the Maharashtra (Urban Area) Tree Preservation and Protection Act, 1975, it is an offense to cut any tree without the prior permission of the Tree Authority. For each offense of cutting trees, there is a provision to impose a fine of INR 1,000 to INR 5,000 on the person concerned. Along with this, there can also be imprisonment ranging from one week to one year. Therefore, officials have appealed all the citizens to cooperate.
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