Residents discover over 749 trees at risk for Indiranagar flyover
Residents of Bengaluru's Indiranagar have discovered that over 749 trees are in danger of being cut down to make way for a flyover, contradicting the Detailed Project Report (DPR) which had stated only 89 trees would be affected. The exercise was organized by local residents amid concerns over what they termed a mismatch between the numbers mentioned in the DPR and the actual tree cover on the ground.
Detailed survey reveals significant discrepancy
The residents' survey, conducted over several days, counted each tree along the proposed flyover alignment. According to the findings, more than 749 trees, including large, mature ones, could be felled. This is a stark contrast to the DPR's estimate of 89 trees. The discrepancy has raised alarm among environmental activists and local community members who fear the loss of green cover in the area.
Impact on the neighborhood
Indiranagar is known for its tree-lined avenues and green spaces. The potential loss of over 749 trees would significantly alter the neighborhood's character. Residents have expressed concerns about increased air pollution, loss of shade, and the ecological impact. One resident commented, "The DPR clearly underestimated the number of trees. We have counted them ourselves, and the number is far higher."
Calls for review and alternative solutions
Residents are now calling for a review of the DPR and are demanding that the authorities consider alternative designs that would minimize tree felling. They have urged the Bengaluru Development Authority (BDA) and the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to conduct a fresh tree census for the project. The issue has also been raised with local elected representatives, who have promised to take up the matter with the state government.
Next steps
The residents plan to submit their findings to the Karnataka High Court, which is already hearing a case related to tree felling in Bengaluru. They hope that the court will direct the authorities to revise the project plan to protect the trees. Meanwhile, the authorities have not yet commented on the residents' survey. The flyover project is part of a larger infrastructure plan to ease traffic congestion in the area, but residents argue that the cost to the environment is too high.
