Rajarajeshwarinagar has recently witnessed a concerning incident where miscreants have deliberately set fire to the roots of trees along the pedestrian pathway that connects Mallattahalli to the Central Sahitya Akademi. This act of vandalism not only poses a significant threat to the greenery in the area but also raises extensive questions about accountability and the protection of urban flora in Bangalore.
Local residents have expressed their frustration over the ongoing destruction. Girish, Ramachandra, and Tanuj, all community members, highlighted the alarming situation: “Despite the evident damage caused by setting fire to the trees - which involves igniting dry waste, plastic, debris, and other refuse around the tree roots - the BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike), along with the forest department and local ward authorities, have taken no action.” Their disappointment reflects a growing concern for environmental negligence in their locality.
The ongoing issue extends beyond just the recent incidents of arson. Citizens have voiced their grievances regarding the indiscriminate cutting down of trees for construction purposes. “In areas under BBMP jurisdiction, houses and other commercial buildings are being constructed in BDA (Bangalore Development Authority), private, and revenue layouts, even when it is unnecessary to clear the trees. We have raised complaints, but there has been no response or action from the BBMP,” they lamented, highlighting a lack of action on the part of local governance.
Furthermore, community members pointed out the paradox in the BBMP's initiatives: “While they invest thousands of rupees in planting saplings to beautify Udyannagar and Hasirunagar, they fail to enforce laws against those who cut down trees illegally. This inconsistency raises serious doubts about the commitment to environmental sustainability.”
The consequences of these actions are dire. “Only when strict measures are taken against individuals who destroy trees and encroach upon water bodies, such as lakes and ponds, will it be possible to preserve our environment,” expressed Arpita A.M., echoing the sentiments of many in the community who are deeply invested in protecting their natural surroundings.
The citizens of Rajarajeshwarinagar are calling for immediate and decisive action from the authorities to safeguard their environment and put an end to these malicious activities. It is imperative that measures are implemented to both protect the existing greenery and to foster a culture of responsibility among the residents towards their natural surroundings.
