Mangaluru: Demonstrations held opposing NHAI felling trees for KPT and Nanthoor flyovers

Mangaluru: As NHAI began felling trees on Tuesday along the NH66 for the construction of flyovers at Nanthoor and KPT junctions, environmental activists gathered to oppose the move.

They staged a demonstration at Padua, where they wrapped the felled trees with white cloth and adorned them with garlands -suggestive of holding a funeral.

The NHAI had applied for permission from the forest department to clear a total of 602 trees along the designated stretch. Among these, 370 smaller trees are slated to be relocated, while 232 trees are marked for removal.

Environmental activists expressed concerns regarding the accuracy of the tree count designated for removal, deeming it inaccurate. They also questioned why trees are being felled even before any trees are shifted from the area. Moreover, current seasonal conditions are unsuitable for transplantation, they said.

They also alleged that the environmental activists were not taken into confidence before beginning the tree felling and in project-related discussions.

NHAI officials have suspended the tree felling activity following intervention by the deputy commissioner, activists said.