Don’t cut any more trees now, says SC to Maharashtra Govt; orders release of all activists

The Supreme Court on Monday restrained authorities from cutting anymore trees in Mumbai's Aarey to set up a Metro car shed.

A special bench comprising justices Arun Mishra and Ashok Bhushan said it will have to examine the entire thing and posted the matter for hearing on October 21 before its forest bench.

Justice Mishra stated that no more trees be cut now and status quo be maintained. Felling of trees should be halted for now and adds that survival rate of the saplings be analysed. Tushar Mehta said, "No further cutting is required anymore. We are all concerned about the ecological impact"

Supreme Court also ordered police to release all arrested activists in the Aarey case, if not released already.

Supreme Court Green Bench to hear the matter next on October 21.

The felling of trees is being opposed by green activists and local residents.

The apex court decided on Sunday to register as PIL a letter addressed to Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi by law student Rishav Ranjan seeking a stay on the cutting of trees.

A notice was posted on the Supreme Court website about holding the urgent hearing.

with PTI inputs