Daijiworld Media Network - Navi Mumbai

Navi Mumbai, Mar 2: Over 200 residents, including several children, formed a human chain on Sunday morning at Sanpada Sector 19 along Palm Beach Road in Navi Mumbai, staging a quiet but resolute protest against the proposed felling and transplantation of 440 trees for a planned tunnel road project.

The demonstration highlighted growing tensions between local citizens and the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation, which has decided to proceed with the project despite public objections. Residents argue that removing a large number of trees in an area already grappling with high air pollution levels would further deteriorate environmental conditions and reduce much-needed green cover.

For nearly 90 minutes, protesters stood in silence, refraining from slogans or speeches. Instead, placards carried pointed messages such as, “Relocation? I’m a tree, not a sofa,” “Me or oxygen cylinders,” and “Free oxygen. No subscription required.” The symbolic approach underscored their concerns without disrupting vehicular traffic along the busy stretch.

Participants described the protest as a peaceful assertion of their right to a healthier environment. They believe the destruction of the green belt would worsen air quality and undermine the ecological balance of the neighbourhood.

Shrikant Patki, who spearheaded the initiative, said the turnout reflected strong community backing for preserving the trees. He noted that the silent mobilisation sent a clear signal that any move to cut or relocate the trees would face sustained resistance, as residents view them as integral to the area’s sustainable and healthy living conditions.