The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has put forth a proposal to sow 15 thousand saplings, backed by an allocation of Rs 6.9 crore. This endeavor involves the plantation of 15,000 trees distributed across three sections, with 5,000 saplings earmarked for each section, entailing an expenditure of Rs 2.03 crore per section.
The initial phase encompasses the plantation of 5,000 saplings within the Dabaspet 4th Industrial Area in Bangalore Rural District and other designated government lands. Subsequently, the second phase aims to extend tree planting initiatives to locations such as the 2nd, 12th, and 13th gardens, alongside the buffer zone of Doddaballapur 3rd phase KIADB, and other adjacent government lands.
Over the past two years, a total of 3,626 trees have been felled to accommodate the progress of Metro Phase 2A and Phase 2B projects, as reported by the BBMP. However, to mitigate the impact, 856 trees were transplanted from 2021 to 2022, while 1,193 trees have been successfully transplanted overall.
A significant development occurred in 2022 when the High Court mandated that for every tree felled, 10 saplings must be planted. This directive was aimed at preserving the city’s green cover amidst burgeoning construction projects, which have contributed to increased air pollution and heightened temperatures.
The escalating construction activities, including metro road development and building projects, have contributed to a decline in the city’s green cover. Consequently, there has been a noticeable rise in air pollution levels and the intensity of solar heat.
In response to these challenges, BMRCL’s initiative to plant saplings underscores a proactive approach to address environmental concerns and sustain the ecological balance in Bangalore.
