Mysuru: Forest minister Eshwar Khandre on Wednesday made an impromptu visit to Manipal Hospital junction, where the NHAI has proposed to fell trees to build a flyover for smooth flow of vehicles.In all, 347 trees are proposed to be axed for the road development in the area and some in other places. The minister asked the officials to explore the option to translocate them to protect the green cover in Mysuru.The minister inspected the Manipal junction on Mysuru-Bengaluru along with officials following concerns of removing trees on either side of the corridor on National Highway -275 for construction of a flyover at the junction.Trees have been marked for felling and translocation, including on medians at the junction and on either side of the corridor of Nanjangud Road, Hunsur Road, Banni Mantap Road and Fountain Circle intersecting the junction.Trees like teak, mahogany, neem, other species and rain trees have been marked for felling and translocation along the stretch. The inspection by the minister gains significance following concerns over environmental degradation, including the loss of shade and increased pollution.The minister gave directions to the officials to reverify and examine the number of trees that can be saved, be axed and be translocated. A fresh report must be submitted to him.Deputy conservator of forests Paramesh and DCF social forestry Shankaregowda were present.
