The debate over development versus the environment has intensified again, this time in Madhya Pradesh’s capital, Bhopal. Even as concerns over the Aravalli hills continue, a fresh controversy has emerged over large-scale tree cutting in the city known for its lakes and greenery.
More than 7,000 trees are set to be cut for the widening of Ayodhya Bypass, one of Bhopal’s busiest roads. The project will expand the existing four-lane road into six lanes. Authorities will also add two service lanes on each side, turning it into a ten-lane corridor. The move aims to ease traffic congestion in the coming years.
The National Highways Authority of India is executing the project. NHAI officials argue that rising traffic pressure makes road expansion unavoidable. However, the scale of tree loss has alarmed environmentalists, citizens, and social groups.
The matter reached the National Green Tribunal. Following its directions, a special committee reviewed the project. The panel allowed the cutting of 7,871 trees instead of the earlier estimate of 10,000. Approval came with strict conditions.
NHAI has promised to plant ten saplings for every tree removed. This plan translates to nearly 80,000 new plants, with monitoring mechanisms in place. Experts remain unconvinced. They say mature trees cannot be replaced quickly by saplings, as ecological benefits take decades to return.
The project has raised a critical question. Can urban growth continue without compromising a city’s ability to breathe?
