What is the Aarey forest?
There are many forests in India. These forests are home to many animals, plants, and trees. They also provide us with clean and fresh air, food to eat, wood to build stuff, and much more.
Usually, these forests are very far from cities. If you live in a city, you will have to travel long distances to visit them. But for a lucky few, forests are situated in their city itself!
One such forest is the Aarey forest in Mumbai. Mumbai residents consider the Aarey forest very special. Let’s find out why.
What does Aarey forest mean to Mumbai?
The Aarey forest gives the residents of Mumbai an escape from their busy lives. It gives Mumbai clean, fresh, and pollution-free air.
It is also home to many animals like the leopard, snakes, birds, etc. The forest provides these animals with a place to live without being disturbed by humans.
Unfortunately, the forest is under imminent threat.
Why is the Aarey forest under threat?
The government of Maharashtra has decided to cut down a portion of the forest to build a parking space for metro cars. Around 2,000 trees have already been cut and more are likely to be cut in the coming days.
Can the Aarey forest be saved?

Many people are protesting against the government’s decision to construct the metro shed.
The future of the Aarey forest depends on what the Maharashtra government decides.
Unfortunately, it is not only the Aarey forest facing such threats. Forests across India are facing dangers from such construction activities.
How can you help to protect forests in India?
Share the importance of forests with others. Wild animals like leopards cannot live in the city with us. It is necessary to save their home. If enough people care about saving forests, then the government will work harder to protect them.