Officials overseeing the flyover construction at the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway and Ring Road junction have proposed the translocation of 278 trees and the cutting of 65 trees to facilitate the project. The plan, detailed by Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) K Paramesha, includes efforts to save at least seven trees through careful relocation.
Project Details and Tree Management Strategy
The flyover, which is part of the larger Bengaluru-Mysuru Infrastructure Corridor, aims to ease traffic congestion at the junction. According to DCF Paramesha, the tree translocation will involve moving 278 trees to nearby locations, while 65 trees will be cut due to their size or health. The department is working to minimize environmental impact by prioritizing relocation over felling.
“We are committed to saving as many trees as possible. At least seven trees will be preserved through translocation, and we are exploring options to reduce the number of trees that need to be cut,” Paramesha stated.
Environmental Impact and Mitigation Measures
The tree removal has raised concerns among environmentalists and local residents. However, officials assure that compensatory planting will be undertaken. The forest department will plant three saplings for every tree cut, following state guidelines. The total number of trees to be planted will be 195 for the 65 cut trees, in addition to the relocated ones.
The project is part of the Karnataka government's efforts to upgrade the expressway and ring road to handle increasing traffic. The flyover is expected to reduce travel time and improve safety at the junction, which currently experiences frequent congestion.
Timeline and Next Steps
The translocation and cutting are scheduled to begin after receiving final approvals from the forest department and the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board. The work is expected to be completed within the next three months, pending clearances. DCF Paramesha noted that the department will monitor the health of translocated trees for at least two years to ensure their survival.
“We have a dedicated team to oversee the translocation process and post-planting care. Our goal is to achieve a high survival rate for the relocated trees,” he added.
The flyover project is a key component of the Bengaluru-Mysuru Infrastructure Corridor, which has faced delays due to land acquisition and environmental concerns. With the tree management plan in place, officials hope to proceed without further obstacles.
