BBMP staff cut tree near Mysore Bank Circle, drump branches at site

BENGALURU: The situation is chaotic near Mysore Bank Circle, in the heart of the city. Two days ago, BBMP forest department officials and staff cut down large tree branches, claiming that they were causing problems for a nearby petrol bunk, and dumped the branches on the footpath.

The footpath, which is used by thousands of vehicles and lakhs of people, is now filled with tree branches, causing difficulties for students and the public.

The petrol bunk authorities had apparently requested BBMP to cut the branches, and the officials granted permission. The branches were cut and dumped on the site itself.

The tree belongs to the Bangalore Central University campus, and the branches had grown over the petrol bunk. While people had requested that the tree be trimmed as it was dry and in a dangerous state, the authorities didn’t take any action.

Instead, they quickly granted permission and cut the branches for influential people, now sparking outrage among the public.

A student said, “The department concerned did not clear the tree branches from the footpath. We are using this footpath every day and we cannot use the road as there is heavy traffic. The BBMP should have concern about the public. If the Palike acts so irresponsibly, who will take the responsibility then?”

Pedestrian Purnima said, “We are using this road every day, and now it has become a problem to pass through. It’s okay if they cut the tree, but why did they leave the branches here on the path? There is no space to wait for the bus there. Now whom will they fine? They should clear the path soon”.

Srinivas said, “Mainly, there is no permission to cut such a huge tree in BBMP limits. I do not know how they cut the tree or who gave them permission. None of the BBMP officials came to ask about this. This has remained here for 3-4 days. It is a real problem for senior citizens.