Chennai’s Green Loss 40 Trees Chopped Illegally
In a controversial move that has triggered public outrage, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has been accused of illegally chopping down around 40 trees in the Perungudi area to construct new stormwater drains. These trees, planted over a decade ago by local residents, were integral to the neighborhood’s green cover, and their sudden removal without proper permission from the District Green Committee (DGC) has raised serious concerns about the city’s commitment to environmental protection.
The trees, including native species like Arjun, Spanish Cherry, Copper Pod, and Neem, were planted by the Perungudi Lake Area and Neighbourhood Environmental Transformation (PLANET) Forum in Kamarajar Nagar. These saplings were not only hard to procure but were also nurtured with care by the community. According to Sajeevan P from the forum, the cutting of these trees represents a significant loss for the local ecosystem. “These trees were a part of our neighbourhood’s identity, and they helped enhance the local air quality. Their removal, without any prior notice or consultation, is deeply troubling,” Sajeevan said.
This incident has brought to light a glaring gap in the enforcement of environmental regulations. In 2023, GCC officials had assured residents that the trees would not be harmed during the construction of the stormwater drains. However, those promises were broken, leaving the community both shocked and disheartened. Since the inception of the DGC in 2022, a mandate was set that required all tree-cutting or transplantation proposals to be reviewed by the committee before any action could be taken. Yet, in this case, neither the contractors nor local officials sought permission from the DGC before proceeding with the tree removal. This breach of protocol has raised serious questions about the oversight mechanisms in place.
The DGC has already expressed their concern over the unlawful cutting of these trees and has called for immediate accountability. “Cutting trees without the DGC’s approval is illegal. The contractor should face a fine of ₹25,000 for each tree cut and should also compensate by planting 400 trees immediately,” said TD Babu, a DGC member. The failure of local officials to adhere to the rules further compounds the problem, and calls for their action are gaining momentum. “Action needs to be taken against both the contractor and the local authorities who failed to follow the prescribed procedures,” added Babu.
From a sustainability perspective, this episode underscores the urgent need for a more integrated approach to urban development that respects and preserves green spaces. Trees play a critical role in maintaining air quality, reducing urban heat islands, and promoting overall ecological balance. The removal of 40 trees to make way for stormwater drains reflects a short-sighted approach to urban planning, one that prioritises infrastructure development without considering the long-term environmental consequences. While stormwater management is undoubtedly crucial, it should never come at the cost of the city’s green cover. In this context, responsible development must balance both the needs of urban infrastructure and environmental sustainability.
As authorities assure that the trees will be replanted, many remain sceptical. The damage done cannot be undone overnight, and the true cost of this decision will be felt by the local community and the ecosystem for years to come. In a city like Chennai, where urbanisation is rapidly increasing, it is essential to adopt planning measures that prioritise sustainability and long-term ecological health.
