MLAs flag concern on tree-cutting, tree diseases in Mumbai

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis today promised an inquiry and strict action against those found guilty of illegally cutting trees in Mumbai.
"Strict action will be taken against illegal tree cutting in the city," Fadnavis said in the Legislative Assembly.
Replying to a starred question raised by Shiv Sena MLA Ramesh Latke, Fadnavis also told the Assembly that an experts' committee will be appointed to suggest remedies to stop spread of fungal infection of 'rain trees'.
BJP's Ashish Shelar said rain trees, some of them about 100 years old, were dying due to the fungal attack.
"The government should appoint an experts' committee to study and save the rain trees in Mumbai. People have a feeling that suddenly rain trees are disappearing from many areas and somebody must have killed them," said Shelar.

Fadnavis said a committee will be appointed to examine the issue and find ways to save the rain trees.
"The government will instruct the BMC (Mumbai civic body) to take measures about the fungal attack," he added.