Mysuru civic body vows to plant 400 saplings as citizens slam tree felling
Mysuru residents rally against felling of over 40 mature trees on Hyder Ali Road; city corporation responds with plan to plant 400 saplings across the city
A massive movement against tree-felling has erupted in Mysuru following the overnight axing of over 40 mature trees along Hyder Ali Road.
The Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) carried out the felling as part of a road-widening project, sparking widespread public outrage and mobilisation of citizens into action.
Environmentalists and citizens have condemned the act, citing the loss of green heritage and the lack of public consultation.
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Petition gains momentum
An online petition titled “Demand restitution for the massacre of 45, 50-years-old trees in the heart of Mysuru” has garnered significant support, with over 9,868 signatures by Saturday (April 19).
The petition slams the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) for carrying out this “crime against nature” without transparency, environmental assessments, or public consultation.
It demands the planting of at least 50 new trees along the same road stretch and calls for an inquiry by the National Green Tribunal.
People can access the petition by clicking on this link.
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MCC responds
In response to the backlash, the MCC has announced plans to plant 400 saplings, ten times the number of trees felled, as compensatory afforestation.
These saplings will be planted across various locations in the city, not just on Hyder Ali Road.
The civic body states that the tree removal was part of the city's Comprehensive Development Plan to widen the road from 30 ft to 90 ft, aiming to alleviate traffic congestion.
The contractor has reportedly paid Rs 1.6 lakh to the Forest Department for compensatory afforestation, covering the cost of raising 400 trees to replace the 40 that were felled under the mandated 1:10 tree-replacement ratio.
Community actions
Activists have voiced strong opposition, calling this act deeply irresponsible, especially as Mysuru is reeling under soaring temperatures of over 40°C.
Also Read: How citizens' fight to protect trees in Assam's Guwahati made political noise
They demand a transparent inquiry into the felling and advocate for sustainable urban planning that preserves Mysuru's green cover.
Environmental groups, including the Parisara Ulivigagi Kriya Samithi (Save Environment Action Committee), have organised silent candlelight protests as a symbolic tribute to the trees that once stood tall.
A memorial service is also scheduled for April 24, followed by an appeal to the Chief Minister and the Deputy Commissioner, showcasing resistance to unchecked urban development.