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Mumbai Named ‘Tree City Of The World’ For 3rd Year In A Row; Netizens Ask “Is This Award Given Or Purchased?”

This recognition was bestowed by the Arbour Day Foundation and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO).

by Nikitha Sebastian
Mumbai Named ‘Tree City Of The World’ For 3rd Year In A Row; Netizens Ask “Is This Award Given Or Purchased?”

Mumbai, the bustling metropolis on India’s west coast, has once again clinched the esteemed designation of ‘Tree City of the World’ for the third successive year. This recognition, bestowed by the Arbour Day Foundation and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), celebrates Mumbai’s commitment to urban forestry and sustainable green initiatives. However, despite this achievement, the city’s accolade has not been free from scrutiny, with comments questioning the authenticity of the award.

Mumbai Wins Green Award Third Year In A Row

The Tree City of the World programme recognises cities worldwide that demonstrate exceptional dedication to urban forest management. Mumbai’s win underscores its progress in expanding green spaces, tree planting, and community engagement. With over 5,000,000 trees under municipal care and extensive public awareness campaigns, Mumbai has transformed its landscape, combating pollution and enhancing quality of life.

Yet, not everyone has celebrated Mumbai’s win without reservation. Critics and sceptics have raised doubts, with some taking to social media to roast the city’s achievements. “The title is apt as long as the trees are made of cement,” X (Formerly, Twitter) user @HarshalMagar7 quipped, highlighting the city’s notorious construction and air pollution issues. Others questioned the criteria for such awards, doubting whether Mumbai’s situation truly merited the accolade.

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Concrete Jungle Or Green Paradise?

The authenticity of awards in the environmental sector often draws scrutiny, especially when contrasting images of Mumbai’s bustling streets with verdant oases. Some argue that designations like ‘Tree City of the World’ may rely heavily on statistical data rather than lived experiences. Mumbai’s reality, they contend, is more complex than the image portrayed by glossy accolades.

However, defenders of Mumbai’s title point to the city’s earnest efforts in reforestation, preservation of existing greenery, and innovative urban planning initiatives. Municipal authorities have invested in tree transplantation, vertical gardens, and citizen participation drives, aiming to mitigate environmental challenges.

In response to criticism, city officials have emphasised ongoing commitments to sustainability and acknowledged the challenges faced. Mumbai’s journey towards greener horizons is indeed multifaceted, encompassing not only policy reforms but also cultural shifts and public engagement.

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Ultimately, while debate swirls around Mumbai’s ‘Tree City of the World’ crown, the award stands as a reminder of the global imperative to embrace sustainable development. Beyond accolades, it is a call to action for cities worldwide to foster greener, healthier urban environments. For Mumbai, this recognition signals both progress and the ongoing quest for a harmonious balance between growth and nature in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva

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