Godrej Properties has started cutting down trees in Vikhroli, Mumbai, despite protests from people who care about the environment. They're clearing about 2.5 hectares of land, which means they've removed 278 old trees, including some that are rare. This area is very important for the 47,000 people living nearby because it helps keep the air clean.

Experts say that 42% of the trees that were cut down were native to the area, and 86 of them are considered rare. There were also 27 types of birds and 12 types of butterflies that lived in this green space. Many people are worried about what'll happen to these animals and plants now that their homes are gone.

Local residents and environmental groups have taken action by filing a legal case in the Bombay High Court. They say Godrej Properties didn't follow the rules about protecting trees and didn't talk to the community before starting the cutting. Their complaint has over 3,200 signatures.

Godrej Properties claims they've all the needed permissions, including one from the Tree Authority. They promised to plant 834 new trees in different places in Mumbai. A spokesperson for the company said they're following the rules and plan to make their new buildings eco-friendly.

However, records show that the permit for cutting trees was approved very quickly, in just 17 days, instead of the usual 45 days. This has led to an investigation to check if everything was done correctly.

Environmental groups have noticed that the air quality in the area has dropped by 23% since the tree cutting started. They say the area will have much more carbon dioxide, which isn't good for the environment. Experts warn that losing this forest could raise temperatures and affect water supply for many homes nearby.