Axing of trees for PM Modi's event raises environmental concerns

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: As Bengaluru geared up for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit on Saturday, the city's administration and police took steps to ensure the safety and security of the PM during his visit.

However, the preparation for his visit has come under heavy criticism as a viral video showed several mature trees being chopped down in Basavanagudi and other parts of the city. The video sparked outrage among citizens of Bengaluru, who took to social media to express their displeasure and disappointment. Many users expressed rage, stating that during the scorching summer heat people were struggling, and it was not fair to chop down trees for a one-day event.

Some people also complained that there was already a lack of trees and green life in the once garden city, and this step was an extreme one. The incident has highlighted the need for better environmental policies and awareness in Bengaluru. Dattatraya Devare, a petitioner in a Tree Act PIL, said, “For a few hours of roadshow, cutting branches of big trees is not acceptable.”

Another environmental activist questioned, “It is fair to chop down years-old trees for a one-day event in the name of security for the PM? What will the security team do about pigeons and other birds in the city flying over the PM?” Several activists have expressed their disappointment towards the BBMP for the action.

While the city administration and police are taking necessary precautions to ensure the Prime Minister's visit goes smoothly, the public is hoping that the government will take necessary steps to address the loss of green cover in the city and take steps to protect the environment.

The incident has brought to the forefront the need for a more sustainable approach to development, where the environment is not seen as a disposable resource, but rather as an essential element for the well-being of all citizens.