Navi Mumbai: NMMC has taken disciplinary action against a restaurant in Belapur for installing decorative lighting on roadside trees, a direct breach of municipal environmental guidelines. The establishment in question, Pawan Restaurant and Bar, located in Sector 3, CBC Belapur, has been fined Rs 10,000 for affixing electric lights to trees adjacent to its premises.

The penalty was issued based Resolution No. 7461, dated 27 January, which explicitly bans activities deemed harmful to trees, such as attaching advertising boards or electric fixtures. As per the regulation, a fine of Rs 10,000 is levied for each tree subjected to harm.

Officials highlighted that adorning trees with lights not only causes physical harm to the trees but also negatively impacts the tree’s ecosystem. The practice interferes with the natural growth and health of the trees and poses potential fire and safety hazards.

The civic corporation authorities have once again appealed to citizens, shop owners, and commercial establishments to refrain from actions that may damage urban greenery. They stressed that the corporation will not hesitate to impose strict penalties on violators in line with environmental laws.

To reinforce compliance, the NMMC is preparing to launch a city-wide enforcement initiative aimed at identifying and preventing such violations across all municipal zones. The drive will focus on preserving the city’s tree cover and promoting environmentally responsible behaviour among residents and businesses alike.