Concerns have been raised over the proposed Formula 4 race planned in Navi Mumbai, with activists alleging that more than 70 trees could be cut or relocated as part of preparations for the event scheduled in Nerul later this year.
According to reports, the trees are located along a road divider and within a playground area that will be used for race-related infrastructure. The event is being organised by the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation, which is expected to spend around Rs 28 crore on the three-day race event.
As part of the preparations, the road divider along the race stretch will be removed temporarily, which could affect local residents until the road infrastructure is restored after the event. The proposed use of the playground has also triggered objections from residents and activists.
The agreement for hosting the race was signed by the municipal commissioner acting as administrator of the civic body. Meanwhile, Girish Mhatre, president of the civic body’s sports, culture and youth welfare committee, has placed a proposal before the general body seeking approval for the event and the associated expenditure.
The playground at the Wamandev Playground had earlier been developed with tree plantations carried out by the civic body. Residents of surrounding Nerul villages have opposed the plan to route the racing track through the open ground.
Local villagers raised the issue during a meeting with Sujata Patil on Friday. Patil reportedly assured residents that the open space would be restored after the event and would continue to function as a playground.
Local activist Pravin Khedkar alleged, “More than 70 trees are to be affected due to the proposed event related infrastructure work. Details have been sought from the NMMC.”
Some elected representatives have argued that no alternative venue is available within the city for hosting the race. They also stated that the infrastructure work planned at the playground could improve drainage and related civic facilities.
Suggestions to shift the event to other areas such as Kharghar, Ulwe and Morbe were reportedly discussed but not accepted. Preparatory infrastructure work for the race is expected to begin soon.
Source: The Times of India
