Maharashtra, one of India’s most urbanised States, faces a transportation crisis that has snowballed into a public health, environmental, and economic challenge. With over half its population residing in urban areas, Maharashtra is home to 28 municipal corporations — the highest in the country. Cities like Mumbai and Pune are struggling with the relentless surge in vehicle ownership, which has led to traffic congestion, alarming pollution levels, and a steep rise in road crashes. Despite these pressing concerns, many cities have pursued an approach focused on expanding road infrastructure, relying on flyovers and highways to absorb traffic overflow. However, experts…
Hasiru-Usiru and BBMP clash over roadwidening
Two recent meeting between Hasiru-Usiru, a citizens group and the BBMP turned acrimonious. At heart is the rapid loss of the city's trees and the involvement of citizens in decisions.
Where were these NGO’s when the entire stretch of Mysore – Bangalore was virtually denuded of all it’s Heritage tree cover ? This was a case where it was eminently feasible to save these trees if only more land had been acquired to create a parallel Road all along the stretch. Was BMIC necessary at all? Are these NGO’s concerned only about Bangalore City ? Yellappa Reddy’s emotional outbursts are unwarranted. If you are not ready to take the flak you have no business to be in public life. There are many People like Salumara Thimmakka, who have contributed more then the Reddy’s and Saldhana’s of the world.
For every development vs. environment situation, there exist a whole spectrum of views from one end to the other with several middle paths. It is important that HU and similar initiatives deeply research (and publish) all possibilities before taking a stand. Unfortunately as described above, most such discussions tend to become us vs. them with both sides being unable to be dispassionate. That said, it should not be forgotten that Yellappa Reddy is one of the pioneers of environmental protection in Karnataka and it must be said to his credit that he was one of the few to take up environmental issues even while he was in government.
Sir/Madam,
I am interested in planting trees at my area where i am located and turn the total area with trees and plants, i require your help and suggestion, about from where to get the plants and tree gourd at BBMP.
Regards
Selvan