Mumbai: A Malad-based tree activist and animal lover, Nandini Kulkarni, urgently demanded the civic body and the state govt ensure that, during the current Holi celebrations, the bonfire is lit away from trees in various societies so that it does not damage the trees and bird nests on them. “Every year during Holi, a traditional fire is lit at Vikas Park CHS at Mith Chowki, Link Road, Malad (W). However, this singes the tree leaves in our garden and disturbs the birds, squirrels, lizards, and other dependent biodiversity. We lost a neem tree in such a Holi fire a few years back,” said Kulkarni.Her letter of concern got a response from the office of the BMC commissioner, who forwarded the demand to the appropriate civic officials. “Besides affecting the birds and animals, such big fires also lead to smoke in the atmosphere, thereby making the AQI worse. Hence, it is better to safely have the Holi fire at a proper spot for the benefit of all,” said Dr. Kulkarni. She demanded the Holi fire guidelines must be sent to all the BMC wards, including her local P/North ward, to ensure that the green heritage is preserved.
