Fri Jun 20 18:05:51 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Bengaluru Faces Tree Felling Controversy for Railway Development**

**Bengaluru, June 20, 2025** – Karnataka Environment Minister Eshwar Khadre has stepped into a heated debate surrounding the proposed felling of 368 trees in the Bangalore Cantonment Railway Colony at Vasanth Nagar. The Railway Land Development Authority (RLDA) seeks to clear the trees for a commercial development project, sparking outrage from environmental activists and local residents.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) issued a public notice in April regarding the proposed tree removal, prompting significant opposition. Environmentalists have appealed directly to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, urging immediate intervention to prevent the tree felling. They advocate for the area, rich in diverse tree species, to be designated as a biodiversity heritage site, preserving it as a vital green space.

Minister Khadre, after visiting the site on Friday, assured the public that he would convene a meeting with relevant officials to review the project. BBMP Forest Department officials briefed the Minister on the variety of trees and highlighted the widespread public resistance.

The Minister also stated that the government cleared encroachment of forest land and has recovered 128 acres worth ₹4,000 crore in the last two years.

**Summary:**

The article reports on a controversy in Bengaluru where the RLDA wants to cut down 368 trees for commercial development. This has been met with resistance from environmental activists who want the area to be preserved as a biodiversity heritage site. The Environment Minister has promised to review the situation.

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