Karnataka Forest Minister orders removal of eucalyptus and acacia trees in research centres, forest in Bengaluru

Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister Ramalinga Reddy inspected three forest research centres and mini forests in and around Bengaluru on Monday (September 28), and instructed officials to remove a large number of acacia and eucalyptus trees present in Kalkere Research Centre, Doresanipalya Forest Research Station and Turahalli Minor Forest.

Mr. Reddy said, “These trees hinder the growth of other native species and trees that matter to the environment. I have asked the officials in these research stations and forests to study the Urban Forest Scheme of the Union government and plant a variety of local species that contribute to the local climate and ecosystem.”

The 30-acre Kalkere Research Centre comprises 4,722 trees of 126 variety species. Many trees have permanent plaques installed to provide useful information to visitors and researchers. The Minister instructed officials to install facilities including toilets and drinking water.