Wed Feb 04 13:57:43 UTC 2026: # Mysuru Launches ‘My-Tree’ Survey for Urban Planning

The Story:
On February 4, 2026, the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) launched the ‘My-Tree’ survey in Mysuru to collect detailed information on roadside avenue trees within city limits. The initiative involves a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the MCC, the Deputy Commissioner of Mysuru district, the Centre for Advanced Learning (CFAL), and support from the Mysore Palace Board. Trained volunteers and students are conducting the survey, gathering data such as GPS coordinates, species, trunk girth, and estimated height. The compiled report aims to inform road-widening projects and other developmental works.

Key Points:

  • The ‘My-Tree’ survey was launched in Mysuru on February 4, 2026.
  • A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between MCC, the Deputy Commissioner of Mysuru district, CFAL, and the Mysore Palace Board.
  • Trained volunteers and students will collect data on roadside trees, including GPS coordinates, species, and size.
  • The collected data will be compiled into a report to aid in urban planning, specifically road-widening projects.
  • The MCC has appealed to the public to cooperate with the volunteers and students involved in the survey.

Critical Analysis:
The launch of the ‘My-Tree’ survey in Mysuru occurs within a broader context of environmental concerns and urban development conflicts. The provided historical context includes:
1. Roadside vendors protest against removal of shops.
2. High Court restrains Highways Department from cutting trees between Vadavalli and Marudhamalai.

This context highlights a tension between development projects (like road widening) and the preservation of existing infrastructure (trees and vendor shops). The ‘My-Tree’ survey, supported by both the local government and royal family, likely intends to gather data to justify future urban planning decisions, balancing the need for development with environmental concerns. This proactive approach might be a response to the increasing number of protests and legal challenges against projects perceived as environmentally damaging or disruptive to local livelihoods.

Key Takeaways:

  • The ‘My-Tree’ survey is likely a proactive measure by the MCC to gather data in anticipation of future development projects that may impact roadside trees.
  • The survey’s findings will probably be used to justify decisions related to road widening and other infrastructure improvements.
  • The initiative highlights a growing awareness of the need to balance urban development with environmental preservation and the livelihoods of local vendors.
  • The inclusion of the Mysore Palace Board indicates a level of local support and awareness surrounding environmental preservation.

Impact Analysis:

The ‘My-Tree’ survey could have several long-term impacts. Firstly, it could lead to more informed and environmentally sensitive urban planning decisions in Mysuru, reducing potential conflicts between development and environmental protection. Secondly, the detailed data collected could be used to develop more sustainable urban forestry practices, promoting biodiversity and enhancing the city’s green spaces. Finally, the survey could serve as a model for other cities in India facing similar challenges of balancing development with environmental sustainability. If the survey leads to demonstrably better urban planning outcomes with greater transparency, it can lead to higher approval of the process when trade-offs between environment and public welfare have to be made.

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