Dehradun Activists Dispute PWD's Tree Felling Figures for Cantt Road Project
Environmental activists in Dehradun have voiced strong concerns regarding the New Cantt road-widening initiative, challenging the Public Works Department's (PWD) assertion that only 17 trees are slated for removal. They argue this number is a significant underestimate and caution that additional trees could face jeopardy once government land acquisition for the stretch is finalized.
Public Mobilization and Official Assurances Under Scrutiny
Videos from the project site have been extensively shared by eco-activists and social media influencers, galvanizing public opposition to the tree felling. Himanshu Arora of Citizens for Green Doon, who inspected the area on Sunday, questioned the PWD's actions in light of past commitments. "In 2024, following widespread public protests, the chief minister assured that no trees would be felled. Has the PWD forgotten that assurance, or is it ignoring it?" Arora stated. He emphasized that the 17 trees cited are merely part of the initial section, with the widening extending to the Vijay Colony bridge, where more trees may ultimately be cut.
Historical Discrepancies and Ecological Risks Highlighted
Arora pointed to what he described as recurring "official versus unofficial" discrepancies in previous Dehradun projects, such as the foot over bridge on Rajpur Road near Rashtrapati Ashiana. He also criticized the ongoing drain construction along the route, noting that excavation has already reached the roots of several trees. "Once the area is concretised, weakened trees could later be declared hazardous and removed. This pattern has played out before in Dehradun," he explained in an online video, underscoring potential long-term ecological damage.
PWD's Response and Project Timeline
PWD officials have maintained that the project adheres to directives from Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and was redesigned to reduce ecological impact after large-scale protests in June 2024 over the proposed felling of approximately 250 trees. Following the backlash, Dhami had assured that no trees would be cut, leading to a temporary halt. With the issuance of a land acquisition notice, work has now recommenced and is projected for completion by early 2027.
