State searches for tree expert agency to assist civic bodies

Nagpur: After constituting a tree authority, the state is now looking at empanelling an eligible firm as a tree expert agency for providing technical assistance to local civic bodies.The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) recently called for expression of interest from firms having a minimum experience of seven years in plantation and conservation of trees. As per the details given by board, the agencies must comprise experts including horticulturists, botanists, ecologists and arborists. They should have an understanding of tree species, scientific knowledge on conservation practices, transplantation, trimming, pruning etc.Experts and green crusaders have aired concerns regarding the fair functioning of the tree agency. “With the chequered history of rapid loss of green cover and of failed plantation efforts in the past, it leaves a lot of suspicion whether such agencies would be another arm of the woodcutters or genuine conservationists. Their past tenders should be checked,” said conservationist Jaydeep Das.In June, TOI reported about the Maharashtra State Tree Authority giving clearance to chop over 11,000 trees in its first six meetings. TOI had accessed all the minutes of the meeting and found that it cleared almost all the proposals that were put before it. Hundreds of heritage trees, which have been given ‘special protection’ under the amended tree act were to be felled with permission.Founder of Green Vigil Kaustav Chatterjee said, “The government should first focus on appointing the right kind of experts in local tree authorities in every city. Decisions should be made after carrying out site inspections. We need experienced people in local committees.”

Pune Municipal Corporation plans to fell 225 trees on college campus; greens fume

The Pune Municipal Corporation's plan to fell 225 trees and transplant 99 for the construction of a new administrative building has faced opposition from citizens. Activists have objected to the plan, stating that some of the trees are not obstructing the building's construction. They have also urged the corporation to follow the example of the Nashik civic body, which was ordered to plant saplings before felling trees. The officials have promised to respond to the objections in writing and will plant new saplings and transplant 99 trees.

Activists launch survey to map trees in Panaji, Assagao

Citizen activists in Goa have launched a tree survey using an Android app to combat unauthorized tree cutting in Panaji and Assagao. The survey aims to protect the region's green cover by recording and geo-tagging trees in public spaces and private forests. The app will enable volunteers to monitor and track disappearing trees and prompt authorities to take action when necessary. The survey will be extended to other parts of Goa depending on demand. Volunteers are encouraged to devote at least two days a week to the survey.

Mahindra Thar drifting goes wrong, rammed into tree: Video viral

Drifting, a popular sport in India, can be risky. A video of a man in Kerala attempting to drift an SUV went viral when he lost control and crashed into a coconut tree. The choice of vehicle and location were not appropriate for drifting. SUVs have a higher center of gravity and are less agile, making them prone to rollovers. Additionally, their longer wheelbases and stability-oriented designs limit their ability to execute sharp turns required for drifting. The driver escaped unhurt but the SUV sustained significant damage.