Trees dying at Metro Eco Park in Ravet, claim activists

According to the group, police refusal flies in the face of the Tree Act 1975

- Vicky Pathare

PUNE: Environmentalists and citizens have alleged that the Ravet police refused to help them gain access to the Metro Eco Park on Sunday to check on the condition of several trees which, according to them, are on the verge of dying. According to the group, the refusal flies in the face of the Tree Act 1975.

The activists have sent a complaint to the chief minister, chief secretary and Pimpri Chinchwad police commissioner, and have urged authorities to take immediate action to save the trees and ensure transparency in the park's maintenance. According to them, 140 trees in the park died last year due to neglect and the current situation could lead to more losses.

Activist Prashant Raul, who complained, said, "On Sunday afternoon, we asked for help by calling emergency number 112 with reference to section 2C and 20C of the Tree Act 1975 but unfortunately, the Ravet police refused to help in the matter. Trees in the Metro Eco Park are dying due to lack of watering and maintenance."