Metro in BBMP book for chop job

Metro in BBMP book for chop job



Imran Khan First Published : 15 Apr 2009 12:22:31 PM ISTLast Updated : 15 Apr 2009 01:02:11 PM IST
BANGALORE: For overlooking and violating the Karnataka Town and Country Planning Act (which is a violation of the High Court order), the BBMP has booked officials and contractors of the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation limited (BMRCL) under the Tree Preservation Act.
These officials have been booked for illegally demolishing a wall at Lalbagh and for cutting Ashoka trees. However, officials at the BMRCL and the Deputy Director of Horticulture maintain that there was an Ordinance promulgated by the Legislature in this regard.
According to the activists of the Hasiru Usiru (an environment group ), the BMRCL officials had started chopping trees at the Nanda theatre Road (RV Road) for the metro rail on Saturday.
However, when some members of the Hasiru Usiru objected, and asked them to show the required permission letter, they stopped the work and went back saying that they would get the required letter.
But on Tuesday, they returned again.
And this time too without the permission letter and started chopping trees and demolished a wall at Lalbagh. The activists immediately objected and informed the concerned authorities.
Speaking to Express, Vinay from Hasiru Usiru said that, “Now many residents were of the belief that trees will only be pruned and not cut for Metro work. Resident are now shocked to hear that full grown trees will be cut.” When contacted, Director of Horticulture, Vasanth Kumar said, “A very small area is being demolished for the metro rail and there was an Ordinance passed in the legislature about it in December 2008.” He added, “Regular procedures have been followed in this regard.” Contradicting him, BBMP tree officer, Venkateshappa said, “The BMRCL officials haven’t taken any permission from me. According to my knowledge, there wasn’t any Ordinance passed in this regard.” Further he said, “A case has been booked against the BMRCL officials and contractors belonging to Karnataka Land Army, under the Tree Preservation Act.” He informed saying that the case was booked today. When contacted, BMRCL Chief Engineer, Captain Doddihal said, “I have no idea.”