Substantial increase in number of trees in city

Mumbai, Aug 31 (UNI) The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has started the census of trees in the city and the data reveals the presence of more than 9 lakh trees in 12 wards wherein the BMC has undertaken the census.

Speaking to reporters today, Municipal Commissioner Jairaj Phatak today said the tree authority of BMC has completed the census in 12 wards in the city and the counting process is going on in six other wards.

''The data for the number of trees in other wards that include Aarey Colony and BARC is with the concerned officials and the tree authority will seek the same from them,'' Mr Phatak informed.

Mr Phatak added that in 1998-99, the number of trees in the city was a little more than 5 lakhs and the number has substantially increased in less than a decade with the efforts of BMC and NGOs, who have been working for improving the environment of the city.

The BMC will start the census for cattle and dogs in the city after the completion of the tree census, Mr Phatak said.

In the census undertaken by the Corporation, more than 341 species of trees have been found, among which 283 are for beautification purposes and 58 are fruit bearing.

The BMC has also found ten species of rare trees during the census.

UNI