Thiruvananthapuram Faces Significant Tree Loss Since Mid-2025
The city of Thiruvananthapuram has witnessed the removal of more than 50 to 60 trees since June 2025, according to recent observations. Many of these trees were cut down primarily for ongoing road construction projects or as preventive measures under disaster management protocols.
NGO Audit Reveals Extensive Tree Cutting on Key Stretches
An informal audit conducted by Tree Walk, a non-governmental organization dedicated to environmental conservation, has documented approximately 50 trees being felled along the Vattiyoorkavu-Peroorkada stretch. This area is currently undergoing significant road development work.
Additionally, the Maruthankuzhy-Vattiyoorkavu section saw the removal of numerous trees, including a tall blackboard tree, several mango trees, a green Indian ash tree, a silk cotton tree, and various other species. Along the Kowdiar-Vellayambalam stretch, around 20 trees were subjected to haphazard pruning, further contributing to the environmental impact.
Disaster Management Order Triggers Widespread Tree Removal
The heavy rainfall and strong winds during the last monsoon season prompted disaster management authorities to issue a blanket order, mandating the cutting of trees deemed at risk of falling. This directive has led to widespread tree removal, with many trees being cut down to mere stumps.
This order has also encouraged private property owners to cut down trees on their land, exacerbating the overall loss of greenery in the city.
Specific Incidents Highlight the Scale of Deforestation
Anitha Sharma of Tree Walk pointed out that the tree-cutting trend began with the removal of a rare small-leaved mahogany tree near the Secretariat on a rainy morning. "The reason cited was that the tree had grown too large and posed a threat to a nearby building," she explained.
Sharma further noted, "A very large area adjacent to the newly constructed collector's bungalow at Kowdiar Palace was completely denuded of greenery. Similarly, trees along the wall of Keltron in Vellayambalam, facing the road to Vazhuthacaud, were also cut down."
Concerns Over Lack of Scientific Assessment and Authority Shift
A former forest official expressed concern that many trees were cut indiscriminately without proper scientific evaluation, while others were pruned in a manner that caused additional harm. The official emphasized that the rate of tree loss has accelerated since the authority to decide on tree felling was transferred away from the forest department.
Tree lovers and environmental advocates argue that the preservation of trees should be integrated into the planning stages of development projects. Instead, trees are often viewed as obstacles rather than valuable assets to the urban ecosystem.
Key Points from the Audit:- Over 50 trees cut on Vattiyoorkavu-Peroorkada stretch for road work.
- Multiple species removed on Maruthankuzhy-Vattiyoorkavu section.
- 20 trees haphazardly pruned along Kowdiar-Vellayambalam stretch.
- Disaster management order led to increased cutting on private properties.
- Lack of scientific assessment in tree removal decisions.
The situation underscores the ongoing tension between urban development and environmental conservation in Thiruvananthapuram, highlighting the need for more balanced and scientifically informed approaches to tree management in the city.
