"Chipko" Moment on December 30th to Protect Trees Amid Development Plan in Nagpur
Nagpur, India: A proposal to cut down 42 trees, including 21 heritage and 21 non-heritage trees, to facilitate the construction of a 12-storey building at the district collector's office in Civil Lines has sparked outrage among over 300 citizens. Environmentalists and concerned residents have voiced strong opposition, citing the detrimental impact on the city's green cover.
Environmental advocates are raising alarms over the rapid loss of trees in Nagpur, with multiple construction projects endangering hundreds of trees. "Each tree plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, and the heritage trees are irreplaceable," said one activist.
The project, if approved, would further strain the city's fragile environment, which has already witnessed significant deforestation in recent years. Citizens are urging authorities to explore alternative solutions that would preserve the trees while accommodating development needs.
The opposition to this proposal underscores a growing awareness and concern for environmental conservation in urban areas. A public meeting is being planned to discuss the issue and present sustainable alternatives to the administration.