NGT halts tree felling for Bengaluru's Hebbal tunnel project

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a temporary restraint on the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) preventing any tree felling for the proposed Hebbal Short Tunnel project. The order comes as the tribunal processes petitions challenging the environmental clearance for the infrastructure initiative.

The tribunal's intervention follows a surge in public objections to the project. More than 1,500 formal objections have been lodged against the tree-felling component of the tunnel construction, reflecting widespread concerns among Bengaluru residents about the environmental impact of the development.

The Hebbal Short Tunnel is intended to address traffic congestion in one of the city's key corridors. However, the project has encountered resistance from environmental advocates and local communities concerned about the loss of green cover in the rapidly urbanizing city.

The NGT's restraining order remains in place while the tribunal hears arguments from all parties involved in the dispute. A final decision on the project's environmental viability is expected following the completion of the tribunal's proceedings, which will determine whether the tree felling can proceed as originally planned.