Concerned residents and environmental groups met officials from the BMC’s Gardens and Trees Department on February 18 to seek clarity on the proposed Versova exit of the Bandra-Versova Sea Link, warning that even the revised elevated road plan could damage the 25-year-old Nana-Nani Park and its tree cover. The meeting follows a redesign in August 2025 that replaced an earlier proposal to clear the park with an elevated road supported by pillars inside the green space.
Trees inside Nana-Nani Park marked for cutting or transplantation. Pics/Madhulika Ram Kavattur
Public response
Residents claim 3200+ objections have been submitted to the BMC opposing the work. Bansari K, a resident who attended the meeting, said green spaces are already scarce. “In a city with very little tree cover per person, losing trees in a community park affects both ecology and public health,” she said. Another resident said the revised plan still prioritises traffic. “Many trees will be cut or moved, and survival of transplanted trees is uncertain,” the resident said.
Ongoing work in the area near the park boundary. Pic/Nimesh Dave
Trees at stake
Total trees affected: 137
To be felled: 89
To be transplanted: 48
Citizens say survival of transplanted trees remains uncertain, and the final relocation sites are yet to be confirmed.
Contractor says…
“Out of 137 trees, only 89 will be removed and 48 relocated. The elevated structure is being designed to allow sunlight penetration for vegetation below” a representative said.
