Controversy Erupts as Century-Old Baobab Tree Felled for Mumbai Metro Expansion

In a controversial move, a century-old Baobab tree on SV Road in Santacruz (West), Mumbai, was chopped down to make way for the Metro 2B project. 

The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) is overseeing the Metro 2B construction from DN Nagar to Mandale, with the line passing through SV Road.

The cutting of the Baobab tree sparked outrage on social media, with questions raised about whether it could have been transplanted instead of being felled. However, BMC officials clarified that the tree had received permission for cutting, indicating that transplantation was not considered.

Residents expressed disappointment, suggesting that authorities should have explored options for relocating the rare species, native to tropical Africa. Byculla in Mumbai also boasts these trees at its entrance.

The decision to cut the tree had been pending since 2021, facing opposition from the then-environment minister Aaditya Thackeray. Reacting to the incident, a furious statement was made by Aaditya Thackeray, condemning the action and vowing strict consequences for those responsible.

In a social media post, the leader emphasized the previous efforts to protect the tree and pledged severe punishment for the MMRDA officials involved in its felling. The Metro 2B project, despite controversies, promises significant reductions in travel time once completed.