Mysuru: Amid plans for the expansion of the city under the Greater Mysuru project and growing demands for tree clearance for infrastructure development, Forest Department officials have submitted a proposal to the State Government for the formation of a long-awaited Tree Authority for Mysuru. The proposal is aimed at safeguarding the city’s green cover, preserving its identity as a heritage city and ensuring sustainable urban growth in the coming years.
The move assumes significance as Mysuru prepares for a major expansion that could increase its geographical area nearly fourfold, bringing new development challenges alongside concerns about environmental conservation.
Rising development projects increase concerns
The proposed Tree Authority comes at a time when several infrastructure projects requiring tree clearance are awaiting approval.
According to officials, applications submitted by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Public Works Department (PWD) Mysuru division seeking permission to clear at least 643 trees for seven different projects within the city are currently pending before the Forest Department.
Officials noted that balancing development requirements with environmental protection has increasingly become a challenge, particularly amid public concerns regarding the preservation of Mysuru’s green identity.
The city has long been recognised for its extensive greenery and tree-lined roads, which contribute significantly to its environmental and cultural character.
Forest department seeks broader decision-making process
Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), Mysuru Territorial Division, K Paramesha stated that a Tree Officer already exists for Mysuru, but granting permissions for the removal of large numbers of trees for developmental projects has often become difficult.
He said opposition from environmental activists and residents has highlighted the need for a more inclusive decision-making mechanism.
According to him, the proposed authority would include government stakeholders, technical experts and representatives from environmental organisations who can collectively assess projects and determine how many trees could be preserved or transplanted.
He said the process would help evaluate projects more scientifically and avoid allegations that decisions are being taken unilaterally by forest department officials.
The proposal has already been forwarded through the Conservator of Forests, Mysuru Circle, S.S. Ravi Shankar, to higher authorities in the department for approval.
Proposed members named for urban and rural panels
DCF K Paramesha has proposed separate authorities for urban and rural areas of Mysuru district under provisions of the Karnataka Preservation of Trees Act, 1976.
For the urban authority, proposed members include representatives from the horticulture department, Mysore City Corporation, Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA), forestry and environmental science experts, and environmental organisations.
For the rural authority, proposed members include officials from the Public Works Department and individuals associated with environmental and public welfare groups.
Authorities stated that both committees are awaiting government approval.
Authority to focus on tree conservation and planning
As per provisions under the Karnataka Preservation of Trees Act, the proposed authority would be entrusted with several responsibilities.
These include conducting a census of existing trees, prescribing standards regarding suitable tree species for different localities, encouraging plantation and preservation activities and identifying scientific measures for transplanting trees wherever possible.
The authority would also recommend replacement of trees removed for road projects and infrastructure works while exploring ways to minimise environmental damage.
Officials said the committee could contribute to long-term planning aimed at balancing urban growth and ecological protection.
Environmental groups welcome the move
Environmental organisations and activists have welcomed the proposal and expressed hope that the authority will strengthen conservation efforts.
Founding Working President of Mysore Grahakara Parishat (MGP), Bhamy V. Shenoy, said such an authority could reduce prolonged disputes and protests by creating a structured platform for discussion and decision-making.
Retired Major General Sudhir G. Vombatkere said the committee would be an important first step in protecting and conserving Mysuru’s green cover, especially at a time when extreme heat conditions have increased awareness regarding the importance of urban greenery.
Environmental representatives also emphasised the need for transparency, stronger regulations regarding tree removal, scientific trimming practices and ensuring that development projects do not adversely affect existing trees.
As Mysuru prepares for rapid expansion under Greater Mysuru, the proposed Tree Authority is expected to play a significant role in shaping how development and environmental preservation coexist in the city.