BBMP eases process for cutting weak trees

BENGALURU: With the aim of tackling tree fall incidents, especially in the monsoon season, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike has amended rules to allow its the deputy conservator of forests of its forest wing to decide on trimming or cutting of trees. Citizens will no longer have to approach the DCF (urban) of the Forest Department.

However, the DCF will take a decision only in cases where a tree is dangerously standing and poses a threat to people. In other cases, a committee will decide on cutting trees, according to BBMP Special Commissioner Tushar Girinath.

So far, people had to do the rounds of offices of the BBMP forest wing and the forest department. Now, whether a tree is on private property or public place, the BBMP forest wing DCF can take a decision on cutting if it poses a danger. As regards private properties, the sanctioned plan will have to be provided and the officials will inspect the spot.

The new measure will hopefully bring down the number of incidents where trees have fallen on vehicles and claimed lives.