Chennai District Green Committee to decide on removal of a tree species from city roads
The Chennai District Green Committee is evaluating the removal of 'devil's trees' from city roads due to concerns over structural damage to buildings. Experts suggest exploring alternatives like root barriers or relocation to balance urban infrastructure needs with ecological preservation.
Why it matters
It illustrates the conflict between urban development and environmental management in densely populated cities.
The Chennai District Green Committee is set to take a decision on removing devil’s tree, an exotic tree species that reportedly causes damage to buildings, from the city streets.
Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) Commissioner G.S. Sameeran said: “The GCC will get expert opinion from the Forest Department and other subject matter experts, following which the Green Committee will take a decision accordingly.”
Councillor Uma Anandan said residents in areas such as Kodambakkam had complained about the civic issues caused by devil’s tree, which grows to a height of 60 feet, and demanded the removal of such trees.
Councillor S. Jeevan said the committee should consider the residents’ requests. “The growth of Neltuma juliflora has also increased in various parts of the city,” he said.
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