*AAP calls the approval for cutting of 2,700 trees by BMC as a betrayal of Mumbaikars, calls for Mumbaikars to take to the ballot to vote out those responsible*

The Aam Aadmi Party today took strong objection to the BMC tree authority’s approval for cutting 2,700 trees in Aarey for the proposed Metro-3 shed. Terming it a betrayal of public trust of Mumbaikars, the party pointed out that over 1,20,000 objections were acknowledged by the tree authority, the highest ever in BMC’s history.

The party has always been at the forefront of the ‘Save Aarey’ movement, has organised Satyagrahas, mobilized support on the ground and even moved court when due process wasn’t followed.

We aren’t against the metro, we are against the proposed site of the metro-3 shed, which can be relocated to any of the 13 alternative sites, which the Govt of Maharashtra had accepted and found feasible.

At a time, when climate change and it’s devastating effects are there for all to see, this decision will only further aggravate the sensitive ecosystem of Mumbai. Aarey is not just a forest rich in biodiversity, it is one of the largest catchment areas for Mumbai for ground water percolation and is the source of the Mithi and Oshiwara rivers. Aarey must be saved at all costs.

We will explore all legal options and continue fighting the good fight. We urge Mumbaikars, to vote out those parties at the ballot in the upcoming assembly polls who are responsible for this decision. We will take the Aarey issue to Mumbaikars in the upcoming state polls.

News Source by :
Ruben Mascarenhas
National Joint Secretary,
Aam Aadmi Party