Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Dec 3: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Wednesday urged all sides to adopt a balanced and conciliatory approach over the proposed tree felling in Nashik’s Tapovan area for the upcoming Kumbh Mela 2026, stressing that environmental protection is as vital as development.

The Nashik civic body’s reported plan to cut more than 1,700 trees to construct a ‘Sadhu Gram’ has triggered strong protests from civil society. Even actor Sayaji Shinde—an NCP leader from Pawar’s own party—has openly opposed the move, warning he would stand against the government if it went ahead with removing trees.

Backing Shinde’s stance, Pawar said, “If trees survive, the next generation will survive. Along with development, maintaining environmental balance is equally important.” He added that the controversy must be resolved amicably, without sidelining ecological concerns.

Calling Shinde's stand “in the larger interest of environmental protection”, Pawar emphasised that progress must never come at the cost of nature. “Maintaining a balance between development and the environment is the need of the hour,” he said.

He appealed to all stakeholders to work constructively and find a solution that respects both developmental requirements and ecological well-being.

Meanwhile, facing mounting protests, Nashik Municipal Commissioner Manisha Khatri on Tuesday clarified that more than 60 per cent of the surveyed trees would be spared. No tree standing on the site during the 2015 Kumbh Mela will be removed, she assured, adding that old and indigenous trees will remain untouched.