Urgent Intervention Required to Halt the Drastic Reduction of Tree Cover in BJ Block, Saltlake: Open Letter

Dear Members of the National Green Tribunal,

We, from BJ Block, Saltlake, Sector II, Bidhannagar, Kolkata 700091 urgently seek your intervention in what can only be described as an environmental crisis unfolding within our community. Over the past decade, and alarmingly accelerating post-COVID, we have witnessed a devastating reduction in our area’s tree cover—estimated at a staggering 60-70%. This drastic change has not only altered the landscape but has severely impacted the local ecosystem, particularly around BJ Park and throughout the residential lanes.

Systematic Removal of Trees:

Post-COVID, there has been a systematic approach to cutting down mature, tall trees under the guise of development and beautification projects. This action has primarily been concentrated around BJ Park, a once-thriving green space that served as the lung of our neighborhood. Additionally, similar activities have spread to the smaller lanes where trees have been felled or excessively pruned, ostensibly to prevent mosquito breeding. However, these measures seem to be more about aesthetic alterations rather than addressing any genuine public health concerns.

Encroachment and Misuse of Green Spaces:

Concurrently, there has been a noticeable increase in the encroachment of park lands by illegal vendors and makeshift car repair shops. This not only contributes to the degradation of our green spaces but also directly contradicts efforts to maintain urban green belts that are essential for sustainable city living.

Ecological and Environmental Impacts:

The loss of trees has had dire consequences:

Loss of Habitat: The diminishing tree cover has led to a loss of habitat for numerous bird species, many of which were once common sights in our block. The gradual disappearance of these species is a clear indicator of ecological imbalance.

Increased Pollution and Heat: Trees are natural air purifiers and cooling agents. Their massive reduction has led to increased pollution levels and higher temperatures in our area, making it uncomfortable and unhealthy for residents. The lack of shade, once abundant and comforting, is sorely missed by the community, particularly the elderly and children who are most vulnerable to heat stress.

Decreased Biodiversity: The overall biodiversity of BJ Block is in decline, with fewer species of flora and fauna able to sustain themselves in an increasingly barren urban landscape.

This situation not only impacts the aesthetic and environmental health of our community but also affects the quality of life and sustainability of our urban environment. The continuous removal of trees for urban development or misguided beautification efforts without adequate replanting or ecological consideration is turning BJ Block into a veritable desert.

We implore the National Green Tribunal to take immediate and stringent measures to halt the unnecessary felling of trees in BJ Block. We request a comprehensive review and revision of urban planning and tree protection policies in our area. It is crucial to implement stricter regulations that ensure the preservation and enhancement of our green spaces.

We look forward to your prompt action to restore and protect the environmental sanctity of BJ Block. Our community, and indeed our future generations, depend on your commitment to environmental justice and sustainable urban planning.

Thank you for considering this urgent plea.

Sincerely.