Sun May 25 14:40:22 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Karnataka’s Minister for Forests, Ecology, and Environment, Eshwar B. Khandre, has criticized the decision to permit the felling of 40 trees on Hyder Ali Road in Mysuru. The tree felling caused public outcry. He emphasized that tree felling should only be allowed as a last resort, and urged the conservation of existing trees. An official inquiry cleared Forest Department personnel of wrongdoing, focusing on procedural compliance rather than the justification for the tree felling itself. The minister also instructed officials to undertake a large-scale tree plantation drive during the upcoming Vana Mahotsava.

**News Article:**

**Karnataka Minister Condemns Tree Felling on Hyder Ali Road, Calls for Conservation Efforts**

**MYSURU, May 25, 2025** – Karnataka’s Minister for Forests, Ecology, and Environment, Eshwar B. Khandre, has expressed strong disapproval regarding the permission granted to cut down 40 mature trees along Hyder Ali Road in Mysuru. The Minister’s comments came during a review meeting with Forest Department officials.

The felling of the trees, many of which were over 40 years old, sparked public outrage. Local residents argued that the current traffic conditions did not necessitate widening the road at the expense of the trees.

Minister Khandre stressed that the removal of established trees should only be authorized when all other alternatives have been exhausted. He emphasized the importance of conserving trees that pose no immediate threat and directed officials to prioritize their preservation.

An official inquiry into the matter absolved Forest Department personnel of any misconduct, focusing primarily on whether the proper legal procedures were followed in issuing the permit. This finding has drawn criticism for failing to address the substantive justification for the tree felling itself.

In response to the controversy, Minister Khandre has instructed officials to launch a large-scale tree plantation drive in Mysuru during the upcoming Vana Mahotsava, highlighting the government’s commitment to environmental conservation.

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