Pune: Unidentified Vandals Target Trees in Pimpri Chinchwad Using Acid, Residents Demand Action

Chinchwad, 12th January 2024: Unidentified individuals have been systematically cutting down trees in Pimpri Chinchwad by using acid-like chemicals on the roots. Over the past three months, 10 to 15 trees, beautifying the road stretch from PMPML Bus Depot to Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited Pump (Gawade Petrol Pump) in Chinchwad, have fallen victim to this destructive act.

Conscious citizens of Pimpri-Chinchwad are now questioning the motives behind the destruction of trees that were planted to enhance the city’s aesthetic appeal. Tree-loving residents are demanding that stringent action be taken against those responsible for inflicting harm on the city’s greenery. They express disappointment over the apparent neglect of such incidents by the Garden Department of Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC).

The PCMC had undertaken a significant initiative to beautify roads from the Gawade Petrol Pump at Bhatnagar to the PMPML Bus Depot in Chinchwad, investing substantial funds. The constructed roads boasted wide footpaths, seating arrangements for citizens, street lights, cycle tracks, and designated parking areas for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers. Additionally, indigenous trees were planted along the road dividers and sides, contributing to the city’s greenery and overall appeal.

However, it seems that the trees planted with good intentions have become an obstacle for some businesses and shops. Visibility issues, obstructed parking spaces, and signage problems prompted frustrations among locals. In response, an alarming trend emerged, with trees suddenly showing signs of distress—leaves turning yellow and the entire tree appearing dry.

Upon inspection by concerned citizens, it was revealed that acid-like chemicals were being deliberately applied to the tree roots, causing their demise. This destructive experiment has targeted 10 to 15 trees along the road from Chinchwad Bus Depot to Gawade Petrol Pump.

Residents have reported the matter to PCMC Sarthi online, but their concerns seem to be overlooked by officials in the Garden department. Despite PCMC’s substantial investments in road beautification, unknown vandals are systematically cutting down the trees. The apparent lack of prompt action by garden department officials has left citizens frustrated.

Tree-loving residents and environmental advocates are urging the PCMC authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly, identify the perpetrators, and take swift action against those responsible for this act of environmental vandalism.