Preservation of Highway Trees at Wada
Project Statement
A stretch of road, beginning from Shirsatphata to Ambadi in districts Thane and Vasai, respectively, is planned to be expanded into a 4-lane highway. Approximately 3200 trees, predominantly of Indian origin such as Banyan, Pipal, Neem, etc., are proposed to be felled for the road widening. The road experiences minimal traffic and accidents. A segment of the road falls within the buffer zone of the Tungareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary. The 18-kilometer road stretch, commencing from Shirsatphata (on the Gujarat Highway) to Ambadi (Bhiwandi Manor highway), is slated for widening, involving the cutting of 3200 trees.
Project Intervention
Vanashakti took proactive measures by raising awareness about the road widening project from Shirsatphata to Ambadi through media coverage. They engaged in correspondence with various pertinent government departments, likely advocating for alternative solutions that would spare the 3200 trees, predominantly of Indian origin, slated for removal.
Project Outcome
Vanashakti's efforts culminated in a significant victory as they approached the Bombay High Court to address the environmental concerns. Subsequently, the High Court issued an order prohibiting the felling of trees along the Shirsat Phata, Ambadi Road. This legal intervention served to safeguard the ecological balance and biodiversity, preventing the unnecessary loss of 3200 trees in the process of road expansion.
