Bengaluru: National Green Tribunal (NGT) has barred tree-felling across the entire stretch of the proposed Hebbal short tunnel project until a case challenging the felling is disposed of.NGT’s southern zone bench in Chennai passed the order Friday on a petition filed by Mangaluru-based Aranya Parisara Mathu Havamana Badalavane Sangha (Society for Forest, Environment and Climate Change). The matter is listed for further hearing on Dec 15.The society’s secretary Benedict Fernandes said the order would prevent the authorities from cutting trees anywhere along the project stretch until the case is disposed of.The society had approached NGT seeking directions to prevent the felling, cutting or removal of trees for the project without requisite statutory permissions and approvals. The petition raised concerns over the proposed felling of 1,128 trees belonging to more than 70 species and the potential impact on Hebbal Lake, wetlands, groundwater and natural drainage.The proposed 2.2km tunnel will connect Hebbal’s Esteem Mall Junction with Veterinary College on Bellary Road, work on which has already begun on vacant land on the Veterinary College campus.
