The redevelopment of the Savlaram Maharaj Mhatre Sports Complex in Dombivli into a modern, world-class sporting facility has raised concerns among environmental activists over the proposed removal of 102 trees from the premises.
Located in the Dombivli MIDC area, the sports complex is being upgraded with improved infrastructure and facilities to support athletes and accommodate a range of sporting activities. However, environmental groups have questioned the need to remove trees and argued that modifications to the project design could have helped retain more of the existing greenery.
Activist Raju Nalavade alleged that both mature and smaller trees had already been cut within the complex and called for an independent investigation. He said upgrading sports infrastructure was necessary but should not involve the unnecessary loss of established trees. Nalavade also questioned the civic administration’s tree plantation initiatives while trees at the sports facility were being removed.
Vijay Dharmapurkar, deputy engineer, MIDC, said the felling was undertaken in accordance with the required procedure, including inviting objections and holding a hearing.
“There are a total of 157 trees within the Savlaram sports complex premises. Of these, 102 are being cut, 24 will be transplanted within the same plot, while 31 trees will remain unaffected,” Dharmapurkar said.
He added that the MIDC tree authority had approved the felling subject to compensatory plantation.
“The tree authority has permitted the felling on the condition that 1,414 trees will be planted on MIDC-reserved land. The plantation will be carried out as part of the compensatory measures for the trees being removed,” he said.
The matter has also sparked political opposition, with Shiv Sena (UBT) Kalyan Lok Sabha District president Abhijit Sawant and UBT leader Pramod Kamble approaching Manpada police seeking action over the alleged large-scale tree removal.
Activists have urged authorities to strictly implement the approval conditions, closely monitor compensatory plantation and safeguard the green cover around the redeveloped complex. They have also stressed that the upgraded facility should remain primarily dedicated to sporting activities.
Source: The Times of India
