Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) on Monday clarified that the number of trees impacted by the construction of Namma Metro Phase 3 will be significantly lower than initially estimated. While early estimates suggested around 11,000 trees could be affected, an internal review by BMRCL’s environment wing has revised the figure to approximately 6,800.
“All 6,000-plus trees will not be removed. Some will be cut, some transplanted, and others retained,” said Kanakaraj M.H., Assistant Engineer (Environment), BMRCL. The final number, he added, would depend on on-site conditions during construction.
The clarification came in response to concerns raised by environmentalists over the project’s ecological impact. At a public consultation held on Monday, activists demanded concrete data regarding the number of trees to be felled, pruned, or relocated. “They’re giving verbal assurances. We want specifics—how many will be saved, relocated, where, and what species and age,” said activist Parvathi Srirama.
Addressing concerns about increased air and noise pollution during construction, Kanakaraj acknowledged the issue but noted that multiple sectors contribute to the city's pollution. “It’s not consistently high,” he said.
BMRCL officials reiterated their pledge to mitigate tree loss by planting 10 saplings for every tree removed and maintaining them for at least three years. However, activists questioned the effectiveness of compensatory afforestation carried out in earlier Metro phases and demanded data on tree survival rates.
The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for Phase 3 is currently being finalised. “We’re incorporating public and NGO feedback,” Kanakaraj said. The report is expected to be ready for review by August and likely published in October.
Phase 3 will add 44 km to the Metro network, improving connectivity along the busy western stretch of the Outer Ring Road.