Over 70 tree species among 1,128 marked for felling for Hebbal tunnel project
The species list includes Indian Kino, Big-leaf Mahogany, Beleric Myrobalan, Indian Jujube, Maple-leafed Bayur Tree, Paper Mulberry and Yellow Tabebuia, among others.
More than 70 tree species are among the 1,128 marked for removal as part of Bengaluru's Hebbal short tunnel project. This extensive deforestation is projected to have significant negative impacts, from a loss of biodiversity to a rise in local temperatures. The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) has not yet published the list of tree species to the public for review, despite being requested to do so.
R. Ganesan, an Adjunct Fellow from ATREE, stated that it is uncommon to find such a high number of tree species in such a small urban area, particularly in Bengaluru. Former forest secretary, A.N. Yellappa Reddy, warned that the removal of over 1,000 trees will eradicate crucial habitats and oxygen banks, potentially raising temperatures by at least two degrees and creating heat islands that could affect a 2-km radius.
Bird and animal populations, including squirrels and garden lizards, may also be forced to relocate. Environmental activist, Dattatraya Devare, expressed frustration over the GBA's handling of the public objection process, claiming they are not being thorough and are at risk of dismissing legitimate concerns. A petition opposing the project has garnered over 20,000 signatures, demanding a halt to the construction of the ₹1,140-crore, 2.2-km cut-and-cover tunnel.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
