The construction work of Bengaluru Cantonment Station takes place on Sunday. | Photo Credit: K. Murali Kumar
Another 368 trees may be cut out to release the way for the Commercial Railway Development project in Bengalur, because the Railway (RLDA) Land Office searched for permission to clean the trees inside the Bangalore Cantonment railway colony in Vasanth Nagar.
Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) issued a public announcement of objections to the proposed felling of 368 trees located inside the colony. RLDA under the Ministry of Railways was looking for permission to remove trees as part of its project “commercial development” planned on the spot.
According to the announcement of the 25th April, the trees concerned are distributed on a large area in the cantons. Details of the types of trees and their location were recorded on the BBMP website for public access, BBMP official said. “Citizens received 10 days from the date of publication of the notice of submitting their objection or proposals either by e -mail, post or manual delivery,” the clerk added.
This step raised concerns about the locals who fear that the extensive loss of trees would further exhaust Bengaluro’s already shrinking green coverage. “A reduction in nearly 400 ripe trees in the city center for commercial interests is a disaster that is waiting to happen,” said Rekha Suresh, a long -time resident of Vananthnagar. “We are already struggling with poor air quality and extreme heat. This project will only make things worse.”
Pursuant to § 8 para. Vi) of the 1976 Tree Protection Act is obliged to invite and consider public objections before the permission of any extensive felling of trees. Citizens can send their comments to both the Deputy Forests, BBMP and JGM/Civilian expert in RLDA, with a copy of any correspondence to be marked with a tree officer.
“The proposed commercial development is increasingly sacrificed with infrastructure and real estate projects. The authorities should explore alternative proposals that maintain existing trees rather than decide on complete permission,” said another resident Vasanthnagar.
“We cannot constantly mow trees and expect the city to remain habitable. Development is important, but it should not be on the price of our environment. The government must re -consider this project or at least drastically minimize the number of trees removed,” he added.
Meanwhile, railway officials were contacted, but were not available for comment on the proposed cutting of the trees.
Published – 27 April 2025 20:37
