Shinde-Led Shiv Sena Opposes Tree Cutting in Tapovan Ahead of Kumbh Mela 2027
Shinde-led Shiv Sena
The Shinde-led Shiv Sena has backed public demands to stop the cutting of thousands of trees in Nashik’s Tapovan area, urging eco-friendly alternatives for Kumbh Mela 2027 preparations.
Nashik, December 05, 2025 – A strong political push has emerged in Nashik as the Shinde-led Shiv Sena has openly opposed the proposed cutting of trees in Tapovan for Kumbh Mela 2027 preparations. The move comes amid rising concern from residents, environmental groups and local leaders who argue that clearing the green stretch would cause irreversible ecological damage. Tapovan is one of Nashik’s most sensitive natural zones, known for its dense tree cover and cultural significance.
According to local representatives, over 1,700 trees were likely to be removed to make way for temporary structures and facilities planned for the massive religious gathering. The idea triggered widespread objections, with citizens pointing out that Nashik has already been struggling with rapid urbanisation, rising temperatures and shrinking green spaces. The Shiv Sena faction has now joined these voices, saying development cannot come at the cost of destroying one of the city’s last major ecological buffers.
Party leaders explained that Kumbh Mela arrangements are necessary but can be planned without harming Tapovan’s natural landscape. They believe alternative layouts, shifting certain facilities and redesigning public spaces could help balance the city’s environmental and religious responsibilities. Their support strengthens the ongoing Save Tapovan campaign, which has been gaining momentum across Nashik.
The issue has also reached senior political circles. MPs from the region have asked the central government to intervene and review the project, saying that large-scale tree cutting would undermine both cultural heritage and biodiversity. Environmental experts have warned that once mature trees are removed, the soil structure, bird habitats and overall ecological balance of the area could collapse. They argue that planting saplings elsewhere cannot compensate for the loss of an old and established green zone.
Meanwhile, the public response has been intense. Several groups have held meetings, signature drives and awareness marches urging authorities to rethink the plan. For many residents, Tapovan is more than just land — it is a symbol of the city’s identity and spiritual history. With the Kumbh Mela more than a year away, they feel there is enough time to revise the blueprint and adopt solutions that protect the environment while still accommodating the massive influx of pilgrims.
Government officials have taken note of the criticism, though no final decision has been announced yet. They maintain that infrastructure development is essential for handling the crowd, but they are now reportedly reviewing alternative proposals. With political pressure growing, the chances of a redesign appear stronger than before.
As Nashik prepares for one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, the debate over Tapovan highlights a larger question: how to balance development with environmental responsibility. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the plan moves ahead as originally drafted or shifts toward a more sustainable approach. For now, the demand is clear — preserve Tapovan and protect Nashik’s natural green cover.
