JOIN USPlan to axe trees for new DC office evokes mixed response
The proposal for cutting down of trees on the German Press premises in Siddhartha Nagar here, for the construction of the new deputy commissioner’s (DC) office evoked mixed response from people during a public hearing, organised by the Forest department on Friday.
The Public Works Department (PWD) had proposed to cut down 220 trees on 2.5 acres of land but the Forest department has trimmed it to 72, with certain modifications in the plan. While, several people, including the residents of the area and environmental activists opposed the move, a few individuals welcomed it.
Some individuals suggested alternative places like the premises of the Government Guest House and Mysuru Race Course. But, many people asked the authorities concerned to strengthen the existing building to avoid huge investments on construction of a new building. At one point in time, an argument broke out among the people, due to difference of opinion.
Retired professor P V Nanjaraj Urs said, “It is an unscientific and an unhealthy development. I will object to the cutting of trees. The authorities should strengthen the existing building.”
Opposing the cutting of trees, Krishna, a resident, said that the proposed building could be constructed on other locations, where trees are less. He suggested the premises of Government Guest House in Nazarbad for the new building. “The place is more suitable than the German Press premises as it is near the sub-urban bus stand. Representatives from ‘Let’s Do it’ and Mysuru Grahaka Parishat (MGP) opposed cutting of trees under the guise of development,” he added.
However, a few people backed the PWD’s proposal to cut the trees as it is for a development activity and criticised the people opposing the move. Manikanta of Siddhartha Nagar said, “No activist was bothered to oppose the storage of drainage water on the land. Criminal activities like chain-snatching are rampant on the premises. If the DC’s office is constructed on the proposed land, the area will see some development.”
M Yogesh said, “Before constructing the building, the Mysuru-Bannur Road, located next to the premises should be upgraded. At present, various offices of the district administration are scattered at various places in the city. With the construction of the new office, all offices can come under a single roof, benefitting the people.”
According to the Forest department, a majority of the 72 trees marked for felling are acacia and gliricidia, and they have been evaluated.
Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) V Karikalan said, “The Revenue department has handed over 15 acres of the land on the premises to the PWD for the construction of the building.”
Karikalan said that being a tree authority, his decision will be based on the people’s opinion. “If any individual is not satisfied with the DCF’s decision, they can approach the higher-ups,” he said.
PWD Executive Engineer (EE) (Special Division) Ramachandra, EE Ravi Kumar among others were present.