Mumbai Forest Department goofs up

Save Trees-Yug Vani

As per report of Bombay Municipal Commission’s disaster management cell Mumbai city has lost 1,000 trees in the past two months due to strong winds and rains. It has raise a question mark over the civic agency’s claims on trimming of dangerous trees to stop them from getting uprooted.

Mumbai had 19.2 lakh trees in 2007-08 as per survey. Such a census should be conducted every five years. The latest one should have been completed last year, but its process started only this February. As per Time of India, the BMC had appointed a firm for surveying trees within the city limits last year, but later revealed that Pune Municipal Corporation had blacklisted it.

Trees are an important part of every community. Our streets, parks, playgrounds and backyards are lined with trees that create a peaceful, aesthetically pleasing environment. Trees increase our quality of life by bringing natural elements and wildlife habitats into urban settings. We gather under the cool shade they provide during outdoor activities with family and friends. Many neighborhoods are also the home of very old trees that serve as historic landmarks and a great source of town pride.Using trees in cities to deflect the sunlight reduces the heat island effect caused by pavement and commercial buildings.

Trees contribute to cities environment by providing oxygen, improving air quality, climate amelioration, conserving water, preserving soil, and supporting wildlife. During the process of photosynthesis, trees take in carbon dioxide and produce the oxygen we breathe. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, “One acre of forest absorbs six tons of carbon dioxide and puts out four tons of oxygen. This is enough to meet the annual needs of 18 people.” Trees, shrubs and turf also filter air by removing dust and absorbing other pollutants like carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. After trees intercept unhealthy particles, rain washes them to the ground.

Trees control climate by moderating the effects of the sun, rain and wind. Leaves absorb and filter the sun’s radiant energy, keeping things cool in summer. Trees also preserve warmth by providing a screen from harsh wind. In addition to influencing wind speed and direction, they shield us from the downfall of rain, sleet and hail. Trees also lower the air temperature and reduce the heat intensity of the greenhouse effect by maintaining low levels of carbon dioxide.

Both above and below ground, trees are essential to the eco-systems in which they reside. Far reaching roots hold soil in place and fight erosion. Trees absorb and store rainwater which reduce runoff and sediment deposit after storms. This helps the ground water supply recharge, prevents the transport of chemicals into streams and prevents flooding. Fallen leaves make excellent compost that enriches soil.

Many animals, including elephants, koalas and giraffes eat leaves for nourishment. Flowers are eaten by monkeys, and nectar is a favorite of birds, bats and many insects. Animals also eat much of the same fruit that we enjoy This process helps disperse seeds over great distances. Of course, hundreds of living creatures call trees their home. Leaf-covered branches keep many animals, such as birds and squirrels, out of the reach of predators.

Trees are lungs for any city & more important in cities like Mumbai which is a cement forest now. Lack of green area may cause many problem like environmental disorder & serious breathing problem. Lack of fresh air ay hit not only old people, young generation but small kids.

All efforts must be made to preserve & increase green area in the city.