August 18, 2025: The Bombay High Court has voiced concern over the extensive cutting of trees and shrubs to make way for various development projects, suggesting the formation of a special committee comprising retired judges to monitor and regulate such activities.
A bench of Justice Revati Mohite-Dere and Justice Dr Neela Gokhale highlighted that rapid urbanisation and infrastructure expansion have frequently come at the environment’s expense, emphasising the need to maintain a balance between development and ecological preservation.
The proposed committee would include not only retired judges but also representatives from reputed social organisations and officials from the state environment department. Its mandate would be to scrutinise proposals involving large-scale tree felling under public interest projects and to suggest alternatives that minimise ecological damage.
The court directed the state government to clarify the stage at which such recommendations should be sought. The bench stressed that the committee’s inputs must be considered early enough to influence project planning and execution, ensuring environmental concerns are factored into design decisions.
The state government has been asked to submit a detailed response, confirming whether it agrees to constitute the committee and, if so, providing an outline of its structure and powers. The matter is scheduled for the next hearing on September 3, 2025.
Environmental groups have welcomed the court’s recommendation, describing it as a crucial step towards protecting Mumbai and Maharashtra’s dwindling green cover, which continues to face pressure from ongoing urban and infrastructure development.
Experts argue that the creation of such a panel could serve as a model for other cities grappling with similar conflicts between urbanisation and environmental conservation. By offering oversight and recommending alternatives, the committee could help ensure that essential development projects proceed without unnecessarily compromising ecological health.
Source: The Free Press Journal
