BBMP’s drive to clear dry leaves, branches reveals zonal gaps

Roots of delay

As part of an intensified effort to prevent fire hazards and ensure the safety of road users—with more spells of thundershowers expected to punctuate the sizzling summer—the BBMP Forest Department has rolled out a dedicated initiative to clear dry leaves and dangerous tree branches across Bengaluru.

Citizens can report problematic trees or foliage by calling the BBMP helpline (1533) or directly messaging zonal forest officials with photos and location details via WhatsApp.

However, a reality check by DH reveals that on-ground implementation varies noticeably across the city’s eight zones.

In Rajarajeshwari Nagar, the initiative appears to be working effectively. Officials receive complaints both from the BBMP control room and directly from citizens, especially from RR Nagar and Kengeri. “Complaints are resolved within half an hour,” said Jagadish V, in charge of RR Nagar.

In contrast, Mahadevapura paints a quieter picture. Chidanand, the RFO in charge, said they have not received any complaints. No spot inspections have been conducted, and there has been no feedback from the public.

Incidentally, B L G Swamy, Deputy Conservator of Forests, also reported no complaints but continues to conduct inspections proactively, highlighting a preventive rather than reactive approach.

West Zone reflects certain gaps in clarity and coordination. Sudarshan, RFO for Rajajinagar, Malleswaram, and Govindarajanagar, clarified that his team does not handle dry leaves or branches. “That’s taken care of by the Solid Waste Management Department. We only collect timber and firewood, which we auction off monthly,” he said. Other officers in the zone, including Rajesh (covering Mahalaxmipuram, Gandhinagar, and Chamarajpet), could not be reached.

On the other hand, East Zone appears to be among the most responsive. Thimmappa, RFO for Shanthinagar, C V Raman Nagar, and Sarvajna Nagar, noted that public participation has been strong. “A majority of the people are aware of the helpline number as we have publicized it a lot,” he said. He added that complaints regarding fallen branches or tree hazards are acted upon immediately, with the cleared material being taken to the depot. Calls to Nagendra P, the DRFO of Shivajinagar, Pulikeshinagar, and Hebbal, went unanswered.

In South Zone, implementation has seen a mix of efficiency and ambiguity. Shivanna, who oversees Basavanagudi, Vijayanagar, and Padmanabhanagar, said, “Initially, we check and confirm the photos and locations sent by the citizens and then send the tree canopy team. If there are dry leaves or dangerous trees, they are immediately removed. But if the tree is still green, permission is requested from the DCF, and once it is granted, obstructive branches are chopped off.”

He also noted that after the recent heavy winds, there were fallen trees in different parts of the city, with a spike in complaints from Ashok Nagar, SBM Colony, Banashankari, and Ittamadu.

Report tree hazards Citizens can report problematic trees or foliage by calling the BBMP helpline (1533) or directly messaging zonal forest officials with photos and location details via WhatsApp.