Environmentalists are speaking out against the deforestation happening in Hyderabad. They say that the city is not doing enough to protect trees, with around 10,000 trees being cut down since 2015. The Tree Protection Committee (TPC) is being criticized for not having enough power to protect trees from being destroyed. Recently, 75 trees were cut down in Hitech City and 72 trees were cut down during the redevelopment of Secunderabad Railway Station. The lack of documentation about the translocation of trees raises concerns about their fate and the need for more transparency in tree preservation efforts.
Uday Krishna, founder of Vata foundation, says that while the TPC claims that only 20% of trees are being cut down now, the reality on the ground is different. The TPC needs to do more than just impose fines and should monitor the entire tree removal process. Despite the Harithaharam initiative planting many trees, a significant number of them are Karnikara species that are banned in other countries. Accurate data about tree uprooting is not readily available, and the TPC was unable to provide requested information about chopped and translocated trees.
Vinay Vangala, an environmental activist, thinks that a stronger committee needs to be established by the state government to prioritize the protection and preservation of trees in a proactive manner. A more comprehensive solution is necessary that focuses on tree replacement and proper translocation to suitable locations. It’s important to have a thoughtful approach when considering tree removal for road expansion projects rather than merely imposing fines.
