Thane is witnessing growing environmental stress as rapid urban development continues to reduce its green cover, raising concerns about long-term ecological sustainability and the increasing risk of urban heat island effects.
According to the 2022 tree census, the city had around 7.22 lakh trees representing 271 species. However, with Thane’s population now estimated between 25 lakh and 30 lakh, the ratio has fallen to roughly one tree for every four to five residents, highlighting the mounting pressure on the city’s natural resources.
Over the past four years, large-scale infrastructure projects, including metro construction, road widening, flyovers and extensive concretisation, have significantly impacted the city’s tree cover. Environmental groups have also pointed out the absence of updated public data on the number of trees felled or transplanted during this period, making it difficult to assess the full environmental impact of ongoing development.
Experts have expressed concern over the declining presence of native tree species such as Vad (Banyan), Pimpal (Sacred Fig), Umbar (Cluster Fig) and Kadamba. These indigenous trees play a critical role in maintaining biodiversity by supporting birds, pollinators and other wildlife that form part of the local ecosystem.
The environmental consequences are becoming increasingly visible across the city. Rising temperatures, recurring heatwaves, irregular rainfall patterns, urban flooding, declining groundwater levels and worsening air quality have emerged as key concerns. Specialists warn that Thane is steadily moving towards becoming an “Urban Heat Island,” where built-up areas experience significantly higher temperatures than surrounding regions due to dense construction and reduced vegetation.
Amid these concerns, environmental researcher and senior journalist Dr. Prashant Sinkar has submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, urging immediate intervention. The proposal calls for a scientific “Green Audit” of the city and advocates stronger legal safeguards for existing trees rather than relying solely on plantation drives.
Environmental experts maintain that preserving mature trees and integrating sustainable planning measures into future development projects will be essential to maintaining Thane’s ecological balance and ensuring long-term environmental resilience.
Source: The Free Press Journal
