Mumbai Activist Urges Civic Body to Protect Trees During Holi Celebrations
In Mumbai, a dedicated tree activist and animal lover from Malad, Nandini Kulkarni, has issued an urgent appeal to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the Maharashtra state government. She is demanding immediate action to ensure that Holi bonfires are conducted safely, away from trees, to prevent harm to the urban green cover and the wildlife that depends on it.
Concerns Over Annual Holi Fire Traditions
Kulkarni highlighted a specific annual tradition at Vikas Park Cooperative Housing Society (CHS) located at Mith Chowki on Link Road in Malad (West). "Every year during Holi, a traditional fire is lit at this location. However, this practice singes the tree leaves in our garden and severely disturbs the birds, squirrels, lizards, and other dependent biodiversity," she explained. She recounted a tragic incident from a few years ago where a neem tree was lost due to such a Holi fire, underscoring the potential for long-term environmental damage.
Official Response and Broader Environmental Impact
Her letter of concern has already garnered attention from the BMC commissioner's office, which has forwarded her demands to the appropriate civic officials for review and action. Dr. Kulkarni emphasized the broader implications beyond immediate tree damage. "Besides affecting the birds and animals, such large fires also generate significant smoke, thereby worsening the Air Quality Index (AQI). Hence, it is better to safely have the Holi fire at a proper spot for the benefit of all," she stated.
Call for Comprehensive Guidelines
To ensure widespread compliance and protection, Kulkarni has demanded that the BMC issue clear Holi fire guidelines to all its wards, including her local P/North ward. This move aims to preserve what she terms the "green heritage" of Mumbai, ensuring that festive celebrations do not come at the cost of environmental degradation. Her advocacy highlights a growing awareness of the need to balance cultural traditions with ecological responsibility in urban settings.
