More than 500 citizens, largely comprising youngsters and Gen Z participants, assembled at Nagpur’s historic Aamrai on Sunday to protest the proposed felling of 61 trees for a sewerage line project.
Organized by several environmental and citizen groups, the gathering transformed the green space into a platform for environmental awareness through poetry, music, jamming sessions, slogan campaigns, and a postcard-writing drive addressed to Maharashtra Chief Minister, urging intervention to save the trees.Participants highlighted the growing climate challenges faced by Nagpur, which frequently records some of the highest temperatures in the country.
Speakers emphasized that preserving mature trees is crucial for reducing urban heat, improving air quality, and protecting public health. Citizens argued that cutting down large trees in a city already struggling with severe heatwaves would have long-term environmental consequences.The protest also drew attention to the historical significance of Aamrai, a mango orchard dating back to the Bhosle era that has served as one of Nagpur’s important green lungs for centuries.
Popular stand-up comedian Sundeep Sharma, who enjoys a social media following of over five lakh, joined the movement in support of the campaign and urged citizens to protect the city’s green heritage.Organizers alleged that vested interests were attempting to compromise the ecological integrity of the area and demanded complete transparency in the decision-making process.
They called upon authorities to explore sustainable alternatives before resorting to tree felling. The gathering concluded with a collective pledge by the youth to continue peaceful and democratic efforts to protect Nagpur’s trees and green spaces for future generations, while expressing hope that growing public opposition would lead to a reconsideration of the proposal.
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