The Pune bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has placed a temporary stay on tree-felling activities in Nashik, Maharashtra, until April 28, 2024. This decision follows a petition by local environmentalist Manish Baviskar, who raised concerns about the environmental impact of the proposed tree removals for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela. Nashik Mayor Himgauri Aher-Adke defended the move, stating that the decision to fell trees was made after careful consideration of road safety and traffic congestion, particularly due to a rise in accidents in the city. Between 2015 and 2019, 31 citizens lost their lives in traffic incidents, prompting urgent safety measures. The Kumbh Mela, set to occur from October 31, 2026, to July 24, 2028, is expected to attract a massive influx of 12-15 crore devotees. The tree-felling plan has sparked protests among local residents, with some opposing the removal while others support it for the sake of development and safety. The Nashik Municipal Corporation is expected to present its case in the next hearing.