Navi Mumbai Adopts Tree Management SOP

Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has decided to implement a scientific standard operating procedure (SOP) for tree management and pruning after a large number of trees were uprooted during the heavy rainfall in July.

The decision was taken at a special meeting chaired by Municipal Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde with leading tree experts. The meeting identified the causes behind tree falls and recommended long-term preventive measures.

Experts pointed out that excessive cement concretisation around trees is a primary reason for tree falls. During road and housing construction, adequate space is often not left for root growth, while repeated excavation for underground utilities damages tree roots.

More than 90 per cent of trees that fall are located along roads and inside housing societies. The experts also pointed to phototropism, where trees lean towards sunlight due to obstruction from nearby buildings, creating an uneven weight distribution and increasing the risk of collapse.

Improper pruning, particularly in housing societies where branches are cut only from one side or from the top without following scientific methods, was identified as another major cause. Heavy rainfall further aggravates the problem as wet foliage increases the weight of trees, while waterlogging loosens the soil around roots.

The panel observed that certain species are naturally more susceptible to damage. Ficus trees are not ideal for roadside plantations because of their growth pattern, while Gulmohar and Copperpod have comparatively brittle wood that makes their branches more prone to breaking.

Based on these findings, the civic body has decided to formulate a comprehensive SOP in line with National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines and principles of urban forestry. Under the proposed measures, the municipal corporation will scientifically manage tree crowns to reduce wind resistance, ensure balanced pruning under expert supervision, and schedule pruning before the monsoon.

The NMMC plans to prune trees during March and April, and avoid pruning during October. This move is expected to reduce the risk of tree falls during heavy rainfall and strong winds.

Navi Mumbai is a coastal city with a high groundwater table, making it more prone to tree falls during heavy rainfall. The implementation of the scientific SOP is a step towards mitigating this risk and ensuring the safety of citizens.

The decision to adopt a scientific tree management SOP is a significant step towards urban forestry management in Navi Mumbai. It is expected to serve as a model for other cities to follow.

In the context of urban planning and development, the adoption of a scientific tree management SOP is crucial. It highlights the importance of considering the environmental impact of construction and development activities.

The move is also expected to raise awareness about the importance of proper tree pruning and management. It is a significant step towards creating a more sustainable and resilient urban environment in Navi Mumbai.

In conclusion, the implementation of a scientific tree management SOP in Navi Mumbai is a welcome move. It is expected to reduce the risk of tree falls and create a more sustainable urban environment. The move is a significant step towards mitigating the risks associated with heavy rainfall and strong winds in the city.