tree pruning
Sachin Siddhe, chairperson of Nano Homes Housing Society in Ravet, who raised the issue with public representatives and civic officials in May, said the society had spent Rs 2.5 lakh to prune around 150 trees on its premises.
Pune: A policy allowing the Pimpri Chinchwad civic body to handle tree pruning and cutting in housing societies should be framed, instead of letting residents bear the brunt of the expenses, said PCMC standing committee chief Abhishek Barne. Residents said trees often require pruning every two to three years, putting a significant financial burden on housing societies. However, a senior PCMC official said manpower shortage and the financial implications could pose major challenges to implementing the proposed policy. Barne said the policy was necessary amid growing concerns over tree conservation, unauthorised pruning and public safety. The policy will help curb illegal tree cutting and unnecessary pruning while simplifying the permission process and improving coordination between citizens and the administration,” he said. Officials have been asked to prepare a draft policy,” he said.
The move follows concerns from several housing societies about the recurring cost of maintaining trees on their premises. They also claimed the cost discouraged residents from planting trees and, in some cases, led to unauthorised pruning or tree cutting. “Officials have been asked to frame a uniform policy through the garden department and other concerned agencies to ensure tree pruning is carried out in a planned manner and in accordance with the rules. Complaints about tree felling and unauthorised pruning have increased in recent times. “Residents have repeatedly sought pruning of trees and branches within housing society premises. To ensure they do not face a financial burden, the civic body is committed to bringing in a separate policy under which it will bear the cost of the process.