In a significant development for Bengaluru's infrastructure, the Karnataka High Court has given the green light for the transplantation of trees within the iconic Lalbagh Botanical Garden to make way for the ambitious twin tunnel project. This decision marks a crucial step forward for the city's transportation network while addressing environmental concerns.
Court's Conditional Approval
The High Court bench, comprising Chief Justice N V Anjaria and Justice Krishna S Dixit, has directed the state government to ensure proper transplantation of the affected trees. The court emphasized that the transplantation must be conducted scientifically and monitored by expert committees to maximize survival rates.
Project Significance
The twin tunnel project represents a major infrastructure initiative aimed at decongesting Bengaluru's notorious traffic. The tunnels will connect critical areas of the city, providing smoother connectivity and reducing travel time for thousands of commuters daily. The alignment through Lalbagh was deemed necessary for optimal route planning.
Environmental Safeguards
Recognizing the ecological importance of Lalbagh, the court has mandated several protective measures:
- Expert supervision of transplantation process
- Regular monitoring of transplanted trees' health
- Compensatory afforestation in designated areas
- Transparency in implementation through regular reporting
Public Response
The decision has received mixed reactions from environmental activists and citizens. While many acknowledge the necessity of infrastructure development, concerns remain about the impact on Lalbagh's unique ecosystem. The court has assured that environmental considerations will remain paramount throughout project execution.
The state government has welcomed the verdict, stating that it balances developmental needs with environmental protection. Officials have committed to implementing the transplantation with the highest standards of care and scientific precision.
