The Greater Bengaluru Authority's forest department has issued a public notice that has sparked concern among environmentalists and residents. The notice reveals a plan to cut down a significant number of trees to make way for a new road infrastructure project in the city.
Details of the Proposed Road Project
According to the official notice, the project will require the felling of 72 trees. These trees are located on a specific parcel of defence land spanning 5.34 acres in the Ejipura area. The proposed road is slated to pass directly through this land. The notice was made public on 29 December 2025, inviting responses from citizens and stakeholders.
Location and Environmental Context
The land in question is not just any plot; it falls within the Storm Water Drain (SWD) buffer zone. Such buffer zones are ecologically sensitive areas intended to manage rainwater runoff, prevent flooding, and support local biodiversity. The removal of mature trees from this zone could have several potential consequences:
- Increased risk of soil erosion and reduced groundwater recharge.
- Disruption to the local microclimate and habitat for urban wildlife.
- Diminished natural capacity of the SWD system to handle heavy rains, a critical issue for Bengaluru.
Public Response and Future Implications
The issuance of the notice by the Greater Bengaluru Authority is a mandatory step, allowing for public scrutiny and objection. This move often leads to debates between the pressing need for urban infrastructure development and the imperative of preserving Bengaluru's dwindling green cover. The decision on whether to proceed with the tree felling will likely consider the public feedback received following the notice. The outcome will set a precedent for how the city balances growth with environmental stewardship, especially on sensitive lands like SWD buffers and defence properties.
The project underscores the ongoing tension in India's tech capital, where rapid expansion frequently clashes with sustainability goals. Citizens and activists are now closely watching the next steps of the authorities regarding this controversial Ejipura road plan.
