In a significant step towards environmental conservation, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has imposed a fine of ₹9 lakh on a landowner in Dighi for illegally felling 81 trees without prior permission. The action comes under the Maharashtra (Urban Areas) Protection and Preservation of Trees Act, 1975, underscoring the city’s increased commitment to safeguarding urban greenery amid rapid development.
According to officials from PMC’s Garden Department, the landowner, whose identity has not been disclosed, undertook extensive tree-cutting activities in Dighi without obtaining clearance from the Tree Authority. The unauthorized deforestation was discovered during a routine inspection carried out by the civic body’s Tree Wardens.
“After conducting a detailed field assessment and verifying satellite imagery, it was confirmed that 81 trees were felled in violation of the Tree Act,” said a senior PMC official. “The act mandates strict permission protocols even for trees on private land, given the ecological implications.”
As per provisions of the Maharashtra Tree Preservation Act, cutting trees without permission attracts heavy penalties. The ₹9 lakh fine was calculated based on the number of trees cut, the species involved, and the ecological damage assessed by the PMC.
Environmental activists have lauded the corporation’s swift action. “This case sets an important precedent,” said Rachana Patil, an environmental advocate associated with the Green Pune Foundation. “Urban tree cover is critical for reducing air pollution, preventing soil erosion, and maintaining ecological balance. Deforestation for commercial gain cannot be allowed to go unchecked.”
The incident comes at a time when Pune is grappling with the pressures of expanding urban infrastructure, with frequent conflicts arising between environmental regulations and real estate development. In recent years, areas such as Dighi, Wagholi, and Hadapsar have witnessed rapid construction, often at the cost of green spaces.
The PMC has issued a public advisory urging landowners and developers to seek proper approvals before carrying out any activities involving tree cutting. “Awareness is as important as enforcement,” said a spokesperson for the Tree Authority. “We encourage citizens to report illegal tree felling through our helpline and app-based platform.”
Moreover, civic officials have hinted at stricter monitoring mechanisms going forward. Satellite surveillance, GIS mapping, and drone-based inspections are being considered to detect and prevent illegal deforestation in real-time.
The ₹9 lakh fine must be paid within 15 days, failing which the corporation has warned of legal proceedings under the Tree Act, including potential criminal charges. In addition, the landowner has been directed to plant a minimum of 162 saplings—double the number of trees cut—as part of the compensatory afforestation mandate.
