Mysuru: Environmentalists in Mysuru have raised strong objections to a proposed railway underpass project near Kukkarahalli Lake, citing concerns over the potential felling of around 80 large trees and its impact on the local ecosystem.
The underpass, planned to ease traffic congestion at a railway level crossing connecting Kukkarahalli Lake Road and Crawford Hall Road, has triggered a debate between development needs and environmental conservation.
Concerns over loss of heritage trees
Activists argue that the project, as outlined in the Detailed Project Report (DPR), would require the removal of several mature trees, including a massive banyan tree believed to be over 100 years old. They warn that such trees are not only ecological assets but also support diverse forms of life.
Members of the Kukkarahalli Kere Ulisi Horata Samiti have emphasised that development projects should not come at the cost of environmental degradation. They have called for a scientific evaluation of the project’s benefits and drawbacks before proceeding further.
Impact on lake ecosystem and heritage structures
Environmentalists have also expressed concern about the potential impact on the lake’s catchment area, which plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and ecological balance. The eastern catchment zone, in particular, may be affected by excavation work required for the 588-metre-long underpass.
Additionally, the proximity of the project to Crawford Hall, a heritage structure, has raised alarms. Activists pointed out that regulations generally restrict construction activities within 100 metres of such heritage sites.
They cautioned that deep excavation for the underpass could destabilise soil conditions and affect nearby structures, urging authorities to carry out detailed environmental impact assessments, including soil testing.
Debate over relocation of trees
During a recent visit to the site, Mysore-Kodagu MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar reportedly assured that efforts would be made to relocate the trees and that the matter would be taken up with the Public Works Department.
However, environmentalists have questioned the feasibility of relocating such large and old trees, arguing that most of them would not survive transplantation. They have termed the relocation proposal impractical and inadequate.
Activists demand rethink and public consultation
Parashuramegowda of the Parisarakkagi Naavu organisation stated that activists are not opposed to development per se but object to projects that cause irreversible environmental damage. He cited previous infrastructure works near Manipal Junction and Hinkal where concerns were addressed differently.
Activists have also alleged that while authorities officially identified 35 trees for felling, around 80 trees have actually been marked, possibly in phases to avoid wider public scrutiny and consultation.
They stressed the need for comprehensive environmental impact assessments and called for greater transparency in decision-making.
Alternative solutions and awareness efforts
Environmental groups have suggested that commuters could opt for minor detours or tolerate brief delays at the railway crossing rather than compromise the region’s green cover. They believe such measures would help preserve biodiversity and maintain ecological balance.
Plans are underway to mobilise public opinion through awareness campaigns, symposiums and a proposed ‘Vruksha Raksha Abhiyana’ (tree protection campaign). An expert team is also expected to visit the site to study the potential impact of the project.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding the Kukkarahalli Lake underpass highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing urban development with environmental conservation. As discussions continue, the demand for a more sustainable and scientifically informed approach to infrastructure planning is gaining momentum in Mysuru.