In a startling revelation that has exposed Mumbai's struggling green initiatives, the Supreme Court has raised serious concerns about the city's afforestation efforts. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) finds itself under judicial scrutiny for the alarmingly low survival rate of saplings planted across India's financial capital.
The Grim Numbers Behind Mumbai's Green Drive
Recent data presented before the Supreme Court paints a worrying picture: only 60 out of every 100 trees planted in Mumbai manage to survive. This dismal survival rate has prompted the apex court to question the BMC's approach to urban afforestation and demand concrete answers about the massive 40% failure rate.
Supreme Court's Tough Stance
The judicial intervention came during hearings related to the Coastal Road project, where the court specifically demanded that the BMC explain why such a significant portion of planted saplings fail to thrive. "What is the point of planting trees if they don't survive?" the court questioned, highlighting the fundamental flaw in the current approach.
Beyond Just Planting: The Maintenance Challenge
Environmental experts point out that the problem extends far beyond the initial plantation ceremonies. The real challenge lies in the crucial post-planting phase:
- Inadequate aftercare and maintenance of planted saplings
- Poor selection of planting locations and species
- Lack of proper monitoring systems
- Insufficient water and protection from urban stressors
Broader Implications for Urban Planning
This case transcends Mumbai's boundaries, serving as a wake-up call for urban centers across India. The Supreme Court's intervention underscores the need for:
- Scientific approach to urban forestry
- Proper accountability mechanisms
- Long-term maintenance plans
- Community involvement in green initiatives
As Mumbai grapples with increasing pollution and decreasing green cover, the Supreme Court's scrutiny comes at a critical juncture. The outcome of this case could potentially reshape how Indian cities approach urban afforestation, shifting focus from mere plantation numbers to actual survival and growth of green cover.
