Greens seek tree-cutting permits at road design stage

Environmentalists in Mysuru have urged the government to mandate tree-felling permission from the Forest Department during the pre-design stage of road projects, citing widespread clearance after work begins. The Deccan Herald reports officials from NHAI and PWD sought permits to chop at least 783 trees after Detailed Project Reports, tenders, and work orders were finalised for 10 projects.

Forest officers said they had no option but to grant permission because design changes were impossible. For a Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway junction, NHAI sought to clear 350 trees for work that began in January; permission came in July. An online petition against tree clearance drew 75,000 signatures. Experts suggested saving 20, 30 trees during inspections, but NHAI said approvals were already in place.

Deputy Conservator of Forests K Paramesha said he will write to senior officials seeking stricter guidelines so tree clearance is considered before DPR approval. NHAI officials argue they follow Indian Road Congress standards and seek environment clearance only for forest or sensitive zones, adding that permit delays escalate costs and discourage tree planting.