Mumbai, Dec 3 (NationPress) In response to the uproar over the removal of trees for the development of the Sadhugram intended for the Kumbh Mela in Nashik's Tapovan area, Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the government's decision on Wednesday. He stressed that while environmental concerns are vital, the demands of the Kumbh Mela must also be prioritized. The Opposition has raised concerns about the necessity of destroying greenery when pre-existing accommodation for sadhus could be utilized instead.

Fadnavis clarified that the government is not advocating for tree cutting, yet he pointed out the significant size disparity between Nashik and other sites. “The Kumbh Mela is significant for everyone, just as is the environment. None of us condone tree felling. However, it’s important to note that Prayagraj, where the Kumbh Mela is held, boasts 15,000 hectares, whereas Nashik only has about 300 to 350 acres for the Sadhugram,” he articulated.

Countering claims regarding the age of the trees, CM Fadnavis asserted that they are relatively new. “A look at Google Maps from 2015-16 shows these trees were not present. They were planted by the Nashik Municipal Corporation as part of the Maharashtra government's 50 crore tree plantation initiative,” he remarked. He noted the current dense growth makes it challenging to establish necessary temporary infrastructure.

“The Sadhugram cannot be created due to the dense tree coverage. The government is working to minimize tree removal and ensure that any trees cut will be replanted or translocated,” he continued.

The chief minister criticized the Opposition and others exploiting this matter, branding their actions as politically motivated. “Certain individuals have begun unwarranted activism. Some have taken on the role of environmentalists for political gain. The Kumbh Mela is a representation of our culture, in sync with nature,” he stated.

Fadnavis promised to discover a path that safeguards the environment while accommodating the Kumbh Mela. “We are committed to finding a solution that preserves our environment. However, if some believe they can obstruct the Kumbh Mela, we will not permit such hindrances,” he warned.

This defense from CM Fadnavis follows a barrage of criticism from the Opposition regarding the tree removal for Sadhugram in Nashik. Uddhav Thackeray of Shiv Sena (UBT) vehemently opposed the cutting down of thousands of trees for the Sadhugram. He questioned the rationale behind sacrificing green cover when prior lodging for sadhus could suffice.

“We do not oppose the Kumbh Mela or the Sadhugram, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of thousands of trees. Why must it be constructed at Tapovan? Utilize the sites that were previously used by sadhus. If necessary, we will join the citizens of Nashik in protest,” he stated.

In contrast, Raj Thackeray, founder of MNS, cautioned that if the government adopts a confrontational approach, the party will align with the public in this battle. “Today, under the guise of the Kumbh Mela, trees are being cut down, land leveled in the name of sadhus, only to be handed over to favored industrialists! What else is happening in Maharashtra? It seems like the current ruling officials are merely acting as brokers for industrialists,” he asserted.

He urged, “The people of Nashik are strongly against this tree felling. My message to them is to remain resolute; the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena will support you. There is no political agenda here; our opposition to this tree felling will persist even after the elections! I implore the government to avoid escalating tensions and respect the public's sentiments.”