Pune: Godrej Properties Accused of “Illegally” Cutting 172 Trees in Mundhwa
Mundhwa, 27th March 2025: A major controversy has erupted in Pune’s Mundhwa area, where renowned real estate developer Godrej Properties Ltd. and its partner, Parmaz Space Five LLP, have been accused of illegally cutting down 172 trees at a construction site. The trees were allegedly felled at night without prior intimation to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), violating environmental norms.
According to officials, the developers had received approval on December 26, 2024, to cut 52 trees and replant 120 at the site. However, as per PMC regulations, they were required to inform the civic body before proceeding with tree-cutting activities. Instead, the company allegedly carried out the operation covertly, raising concerns about their intentions.
PMC’s Horticulture Department officer, Dnyanoba Balwadkar, has filed a complaint against Jamit Singh Chabra of Parmaz Space Five LLP, holding them responsible for the unauthorized action.
PMC ward officer Hemant Kirulkar confirmed that a notice had been issued to the company for violating permission conditions. “Cutting trees at night is not only against regulations but also scientifically unsound. This incident is being taken seriously, and appropriate action will follow,” he said.
Local social activist Nilesh Bidkar was the first to bring the incident to light. He noticed heavy vehicles transporting chopped trees near the construction site and questioned the workers about it. “I saw trees being loaded onto trucks using cranes. When I asked the driver for proof of permission, he only had a letter submitted to the police, but not an actual approval document,” Bidkar claimed.
He further alleged that the PMC was slow to act. “I contacted the ward officer, who informed me that trees cannot be cut at night. I then called the police control room, and officers arrived at the scene. However, Balwadkar, the PMC officer responsible, was reluctant to come initially. He only reached the police station after being warned of legal action,” said Bidkar.
Bidkar also accused Balwadkar of shielding the developer. “It is suspicious that he has been on leave since the incident came to light,” he added.
Police Action and Investigation
Senior Police Inspector Nilkanth Jagtap of Mundhwa Police Station stated, “The construction company had obtained permission from PMC, but since they cut down the trees at night without prior intimation, we have initiated an inquiry.”
Following the growing outrage, PMC has issued a second notice to Godrej Properties Ltd. and its partner, asking them to explain their actions. Officials are now considering legal action against the developers.
Note: Statement of Godrej Properties will be added after it is received.
