Allegations have surfaced regarding the proposed felling of 138 trees, including 22 heritage trees, on Plot No. 3 located on the Jayaprakash Nagar Saturday Market Road — popularly known as Orange Street or London Street. The proposal is currently under consideration by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), which had issued a public notice on April 23 inviting objections, with a public hearing expected soon.
Local residents and environmental groups had announced a “Chipko” protest on May 10 against the proposed tree cutting. However, activists alleged that the entire plot had been barricaded with tin sheets, preventing public access to the site. Protesters later held their demonstration outside the barricaded area.
The incident was also highlighted in media reports. Subsequently, on May 17, citizens formed a human chain demanding a joint site inspection by the Tree Authority and Garden Department officials.
During the joint inspection conducted on May 20 by officials of the Garden Department, Tree Authority members, contractors and objectors, several irregularities were allegedly noticed. According to the objectors, although the official advertisement mentioned 22 heritage trees, only five to six such trees were visible on the site. It was further alleged that the highest numbered tree found during the inspection was marked as No. 88, leading to allegations that nearly 50 trees mentioned in the application were missing from the site.
Citizens and activists also alleged that three trees were found partially or completely damaged or burnt, while several trees reportedly did not have identification markings.
Allegations were also made that nails had been hammered into trees to attach numbered tags despite environmental regulations prohibiting such acts. Residents further alleged that uprooted asphalt and debris had been dumped around the trees.
According to the protesters, repeated demands for an on-site panchnama regarding the allegedly missing trees were not accepted by officials. Activists claimed that officials stated that any panchnama would be conducted later at the office, leading to further allegations of avoidance of accountability. The incident has reportedly triggered resentment among local citizens.
Objections have also been raised over the continuation of the tree-felling process while a petition related to the London Street project is pending before the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court. Activists alleged that issuing a public notice and proceeding towards a public hearing during the pendency of the matter could amount to misleading the public and the court.
Citizens have sought clarity on several issues, including who authorised the installation of tin barricades around the site, whether action would be initiated regarding the allegedly missing and damaged trees, whether an independent inquiry into the project would be conducted, and how a plot reportedly reserved for public utility purposes was proposed for a 12-storey commercial development.
Residents have demanded immediate action and urged that all relevant information be placed before the High Court. They have also appealed for appropriate legal action if any violations are established.
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