The City has been expanding rapidly and many trees have been cut to widen roads and build flyovers. Tree translocation seems to be the only option left.

According to Bangalore Environment Trust, the process is tedious. It’s also expensive since the translocation of huge trees require mechanical help. The Metro Rail authorities experimented with translocation of trees.

To create awareness about the process of tree transplantation among forest/horticulture officers and project engineers of BBMP, a training programme was jointly organised by BBMP and Bangalore Environment Trust on Tuesday.

Support needed

Dr S Subramanya, BBMP Commissioner, said: “Eighty five roads across Bangalore will be widened in the coming days which will affect 1,068 trees. BBMP, with help from Bangalore Environment Trust and Forest Department, will examine how many of these trees can be translocated. The public and NGOs should support BBMP in this endeavour.”

On the cost of translocating trees, the Commissioner said if trees are translocated in a planned manner, it can be reduced to a large extent.

False charge

Dr Subramanya denied the BBMP cut a large number of trees. “Of the 30 lakh trees under BBMP limits, 63 were lost due to rains and other natural calamities and 60 cut with BBMP’s permission last year.”

According to horticulturist G Rame Gowda, the cost of transplanting trees varies from place to place. Translocating a large tree can cost anywhere between Rs 15,000 and 25,000. The cost for smaller trees is negligible.”

NEED FOR IT

*To prevent loss of trees which can be
uprooted

*To instantly alter landscape

*To pave the way for urban development

*To avoid losing green cover to urbanisation