Govt Declares 371-Tree Cantonment as Biodiversity Heritage Site

Speedy Summary

• The 8.61-acre Cantonment Railway Colony area in Bengaluru has been officially declared a biodiversity Heritage Site under Section 37 of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
• The site features 371 trees from over 50 species and spans a historically significant area where Mahatma Gandhi interacted wiht freedom fighters in 1920.
• Minister Eshwar B. Khandre announced the designation after chairing a meeting of the State Biodiversity Board at Vikas Soudha.
• the site is recognized for its ecological richness, serving as vital “lung space” for Bengaluru and playing a key role in combating air and noise pollution.
• Citizens opposed RLDA’s April proposal to remove trees for commercial advancement, with over 15,000 appeals calling for protection of the greenery through petitions, digital campaigns, and emails.
• Only two objections were received against preservation; public sentiment overwhelmingly supported conservation efforts.
• The government stated that this decision is historic amidst growing concerns over climate change and shrinking green spaces.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The declaration of Cantonment Railway Colony as a Biodiversity Heritage Site reflects an encouraging step toward balancing urban development with environmental conservation. Bengaluru faces mounting pressure due to deteriorating air quality and depleting greenery-issues that are increasingly critical given global climate challenges. Recognizing citizen involvement in protecting such areas underscores how public participation reinforces environmental policies.

additionally, integrating historical significance into ecological preservation ensures future generations can appreciate both natural beauty and cultural heritage. Decisions like these could serve as precedents for similar urban spaces across India facing ecological stress due to unregulated commercialization.Maintaining dialogue between authorities and communities remains vital to ensuring sustainable growth aligned with environmental priorities.

Read more: Published – September 10,2025 – IST