Halt the proposed cutting of 29,000 trees in Shivaji Nagar and Tulsi Nagar.
Updates:
June 19, 2024: Thanks to the relentless efforts of Bhopal's green brigade and public outcry, the government's plan to fell 29,000 trees in the heart of the city for a housing project has been halted. After five days of protests, the urban development and housing minister announced that the proposal was rejected in favor of exploring alternative sites. This victory for environmental protection was achieved through the collective action of citizens, environmental experts, civil rights groups, and local residents who demanded the preservation of Tulsi Nagar and Shivaji Nagar's green cover.
Decision Makers:
Chief Minister, Government of Madhya Pradesh.
Minister of Public works Department - Government of Madhya Pradesh
Introduction
Bhopal, known as the City of Lakes and greenery, is under threat! The government plans to cut down 29,000 trees to build bungalows for ministers, MLAs, and officers in the areas of Shivaji Nagar and Tulsi Nagar. These trees have been a part of the community for decades, providing shade, clean air, and a home to countless birds and animals.
What’s the issue?
The proposal to cut down these trees has sparked a wave of protests from the residents and environmentalists. The trees, aged between 50 and 70 years, are set to be removed to make way for new bungalows. This action will not only destroy the greenery of Bhopal but will also displace thousands of residents. The experience from the Smart City project, where trees were cut, and people were displaced without proper rehousing, has heightened concerns.
Local activists, including women, have started a Chipko movement similar to the famous Uttarakhand protests. They are determined to save these trees, hugging and worshipping them, vowing to protect them.
Why it matters?
The environmental and social impacts of cutting these trees are immense. The trees help in maintaining the ecological balance, reducing soil erosion, and mitigating the effects of climate change. They are crucial for the local biodiversity and the well-being of the community. The loss of these trees would lead to increased heat and pollution, affecting the health and quality of life of the residents.
Furthermore, the displacement of people without proper rehabilitation plans would lead to social instability and hardship for many families. The government needs to find a more sustainable and humane solution that does not involve the destruction of such a vital part of Bhopal's natural heritage.
Our appeal
We urge the authorities to halt the clearance for this project. Alternative locations that do not involve cutting down mature trees should be considered. Additionally, any development projects should ensure the completion and success of existing tree planting initiatives before starting new constructions.
Our trees must not be sacrificed in the name of development. Activists and residents have fought tirelessly to conserve these trees, and we must support them in their efforts to protect our environment and community.
Sources:
Halt the proposed cutting of 29,000 trees in Shivaji Nagar and Tulsi Nagar.
Updates:
June 19, 2024: Thanks to the relentless efforts of Bhopal's green brigade and public outcry, the government's plan to fell 29,000 trees in the heart of the city for a housing project has been halted. After five days of protests, the urban development and housing minister announced that the proposal was rejected in favor of exploring alternative sites. This victory for environmental protection was achieved through the collective action of citizens, environmental experts, civil rights groups, and local residents who demanded the preservation of Tulsi Nagar and Shivaji Nagar's green cover.
Decision Makers:
Chief Minister, Government of Madhya Pradesh.
Minister of Public works Department - Government of Madhya Pradesh
Introduction
Bhopal, known as the City of Lakes and greenery, is under threat! The government plans to cut down 29,000 trees to build bungalows for ministers, MLAs, and officers in the areas of Shivaji Nagar and Tulsi Nagar. These trees have been a part of the community for decades, providing shade, clean air, and a home to countless birds and animals.
What’s the issue?
The proposal to cut down these trees has sparked a wave of protests from the residents and environmentalists. The trees, aged between 50 and 70 years, are set to be removed to make way for new bungalows. This action will not only destroy the greenery of Bhopal but will also displace thousands of residents. The experience from the Smart City project, where trees were cut, and people were displaced without proper rehousing, has heightened concerns.
Local activists, including women, have started a Chipko movement similar to the famous Uttarakhand protests. They are determined to save these trees, hugging and worshipping them, vowing to protect them.
Why it matters?
The environmental and social impacts of cutting these trees are immense. The trees help in maintaining the ecological balance, reducing soil erosion, and mitigating the effects of climate change. They are crucial for the local biodiversity and the well-being of the community. The loss of these trees would lead to increased heat and pollution, affecting the health and quality of life of the residents.
Furthermore, the displacement of people without proper rehabilitation plans would lead to social instability and hardship for many families. The government needs to find a more sustainable and humane solution that does not involve the destruction of such a vital part of Bhopal's natural heritage.
Our appeal
We urge the authorities to halt the clearance for this project. Alternative locations that do not involve cutting down mature trees should be considered. Additionally, any development projects should ensure the completion and success of existing tree planting initiatives before starting new constructions.
Our trees must not be sacrificed in the name of development. Activists and residents have fought tirelessly to conserve these trees, and we must support them in their efforts to protect our environment and community.
Sources: