In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has temporarily stopped the cutting and transplantation of trees for the ongoing Kolkata Metro project near the historic Victoria Memorial.
This ruling comes as a response to growing environmental concerns surrounding the Maidan area, a green expanse vital to the city’s ecosystem.
The apex court bench, comprising Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan, delivered the order after hearing a petition filed by an environmental group, People United for Better Living in Kolkata.
The petition challenged a previous ruling by the Calcutta High Court, which had dismissed concerns about large-scale tree felling in the region.
The project, which spans from Mominpur to Dharmatala, involves cutting down around 700 trees, sparking widespread opposition from environmental activists.
In its interim order, the Supreme Court has barred any further felling or transplantation of trees.
The court clarified that metro expansion work can continue as long as they do not harm any additional trees.
“You can continue with the work but don’t fell trees from today,” the bench instructed Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), which is overseeing the project.
The court has also issued notices to the West Bengal government, RVNL, and other stakeholders, asking them to respond to the allegations of environmental degradation.
A follow-up hearing is likely in three weeks, during which the court will review the environmental impact of the metro expansion.
This ruling highlights the ongoing debate between urban development and environmental conservation, particularly in cities like Kolkata, where green spaces are under constant threat.
The Maidan area, adjacent to the iconic Victoria Memorial, is considered one of the city’s most important natural assets, and its preservation has become a focal point for environmental activists.
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