The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has instructed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to conduct an environmental impact assessment study to minimize tree loss during the expansion of National Highway 163, which connects Hyderabad and Bijapur.
Members of the environmental group ‘Save Banyans of Chevella’ filed a petition opposing the removal of ancient banyan trees for road expansion. The NGT has given the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) four months to issue terms of reference and complete the assessment process.
Initially, over 1,000 trees along the 46-kilometer stretch between Moinabad and Manneguda were planned to be removed for the four-lane road. However, citizen activists raised objections in 2019.
The NGT expressed concerns about transplanting 780 banyan trees, as it can be costly and is only feasible for trees with a girth not exceeding 65 centimeters. The bench also noted that if uprooted trees are transplanted but do not survive, it would result in a wasteful expense.
The Save Chevella Banyans campaign and the Nature Lovers of Hyderabad are pleased with the tribunal’s judgment. They believe it offers hope for other citizen groups and individuals trying to save trees from destruction.
Members of the Save Banyans of Chevella group are excited about the ruling. They believe it is a significant decision that will enhance tree protection even along major roadways. They are eagerly awaiting the terms of reference from the MoEFCC to determine their next steps in preserving these ancient banyan trees.
