Hyderabad: Unscientific Pruning of Trees Raises Environmental Concerns
The unscientific pruning of trees in various parts of Hyderabad, carried out by the Electricity Department, is raising alarm among citizens. Many are worried about the environmental harm caused when entire canopies of trees are chopped off, leaving just the trunks behind. The purpose of this pruning is to prevent power outages by cutting branches near power lines. However, different departments like the Forest, GHMC, and Power departments seem to be avoiding responsibility for the issue.
While this tree pruning should have been completed before the monsoon, it continues unchecked in many areas. Contractors hired by the electricity company are carrying out the work, but there have been cases in districts where contractors have been penalized. In Hyderabad, however, the problem persists. According to Vinay Vangala, an environmental activist, this unscientific pruning of trees is happening across Telangana. He criticized the lack of action from the Forest department and stressed that the government needs to understand the environmental impact of such practices.
Vinay also pointed out that this issue occurred recently in Madhapur near NIA Road, where trees were pruned for the second time in six months. He expressed his frustration, noting that while HYDRA (Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority) is strict about environmental concerns, the Power department continues to act without proper restraint when it comes to trees.
The Vata Foundation, an environmental organization, also voiced its concerns. P Uday Krishna, the founding trustee, mentioned that there is no clear protocol being followed for tree pruning. He highlighted a lack of coordination between different bodies like the Tree Protection Committees, which are supposed to involve all stakeholders. According to Uday, the root cause of the problem is not being addressed, and as a result, trees in the city are being unfairly impacted by power-related issues. He emphasized the need for a permanent solution to protect the trees and prevent further environmental damage.
