NGT restrains BDA from felling 1,128 trees for Hebbal Short Tunnel Project
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Environmental laws, EIA & institutions· Prelims + Mains·
Judicial intervention in urban infrastructure: a GS3 case study on balancing development with biodiversity.
Why in news
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) restrained the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) from felling 1,128 trees for the Hebbal Short Tunnel Project following over 1,500 public objections.
Background
The NGT stayed the tree felling until a hearing scheduled for December 15. The project involves the Hebbal Short Tunnel near Hebbal Lake, with concerns raised regarding biodiversity loss and hydrological impacts.
Facts for Prelims
- Fact1,128 trees were slated for felling for the Hebbal Short Tunnel Project.
- FactOver 1,500 objections were filed against the tree felling.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the Hebbal Short Tunnel Project and the NGT stay, consider the following statements:
- The NGT allowed the felling of trees immediately to expedite infrastructure.
- The project is located near Hebbal Lake.
- The NGT restrained the BDA from felling 1,128 trees.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 and 2 only
- (b)1 and 3 only
- (c)2 and 3 only
- (d)1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: (c) 2 and 3 only — Statements 2 and 3 are correct. Statement 1 is incorrect: The NGT stayed the tree felling until a hearing scheduled for December 15.
For Mains
Q. Examine the conflict between urban infrastructure development and environmental conservation in rapidly expanding metropolitan cities like Bengaluru.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Ecological degradation: Irreversible loss of urban biodiversity and disruption of local hydrological cycles near water bodies.
- Regulatory oversight: Balancing the mandate of urban development authorities with the environmental protections enforced by the NGT.
- Public participation: The role of citizen-led objections in shaping environmental impact assessments for infrastructure projects.
Keywords: Environmental Impact Assessment · Urban Biodiversity · Hydrological Impact · Sustainable Urbanization · Judicial Activism
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