Mumbai Mayor Rejects Chembur Tree Collapse Probe Report, Orders Fresh Inquiry

Mumbai, 19th July 2026 Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde has rejected the inquiry report submitted by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) regarding the fatal Chembur tree collapse incident, alleging that it attempts to shield officials responsible for the tragedy. She has warned that if Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide does not order a fresh inquiry and submit a revised report, she will approach Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

The mayor expressed strong dissatisfaction with the findings of the report, stating that it unfairly focuses on penalising the contractor and consultant while overlooking the role of officials from the BMC’s Garden Department.

“A report that protects the real officials responsible for the incident is unacceptable,” Tawde said, adding that she has returned the report to Commissioner Ashwini Bhide for reconsideration.

Referring to the death of a young victim in the incident, Tawde said that a human life cannot be valued at merely ₹7 lakh. She stressed that accountability must extend to all those responsible and not be limited to contractors alone.

The mayor expressed confidence in Commissioner Ashwini Bhide, describing her as an efficient and sensitive officer who would not protect anyone found guilty. She said she expects the commissioner to prepare a revised report after taking into account the sentiments of elected representatives and the public.

The Chembur tree collapse incident had sparked widespread public outrage after a tree fell on a school van, resulting in the death of one student and injuries to several others. The incident raised serious concerns about the maintenance and inspection of trees across Mumbai.

The controversy over the inquiry report has intensified the debate over administrative accountability, with the mayor insisting that all responsible officials must face appropriate action rather than shifting blame solely onto contractors.