India, June 20 -- In a major step towards repairing the 135-year-old Malabar Hill reservoir, the BMC has finalised the removal of 97 trees to make way for the construction of an alternative water tank on a plot behind the popular tourist spot of Hanging Gardens. The tank will ensure an uninterrupted water supply to parts of South Mumbai while the heritage reservoir undergoes crucial repairs.

Of the 389 trees earlier earmarked on the plot, 189 were to be hacked, but after public resistance the number was brought down to 97.

According to a civic official, 20 large trees, mostly mango, chikoo, jackfruit, Ashoka and palm, will be chopped. The rest of the trees are smaller ones. However, rare species like the Ram trees will be preserved.

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