Local Activists Protest Tree Cutting for Road Expansion in Rishikesh

In Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, local residents and environmental activists have taken a stand against the proposed widening of the Dehradun-Rishikesh National Highway between Bhaniyawala and Ranipokhari. To protect the trees that are slated for removal, community members are maintaining a constant vigil at the site. Protesters assert that they will not allow the trees to be cut down under any circumstances.

Shilpi, an environmental activist participating in the protest, expressed her concerns regarding the detrimental effects of deforestation. She stated, "We are opposing the large-scale destruction of forests. They plan to cut down trees to create a four-lane road. Traffic congestion only occurs within the city and during the Char Dham pilgrimage season. Does this mean they will eventually clear-cut the entire mountain for a four-lane highway?"

She further added, "We are all aware that temperatures have already risen by 2.5 degrees, and climate change is a pressing issue. Rishikesh is experiencing significantly less rainfall, which the locals are acutely aware of. When a tree ages, it harbors not just one species but various viruses as well. Cutting down forests leads to the death of trees and the emergence of numerous diseases. Wealthy individuals can escape to other states or countries during heatwaves, but the middle class and the poor have to endure the conditions here. Today, living in Rishikesh without air conditioning has become a challenge. Uttarakhand has already lost over 46,000 hectares of forest."

Residents continue to oppose the project and are also engaged in legal battles to save the trees. Advocate Ashutosh Kothari, involved in the movement, elaborated on the severity of the situation.

He explained, "We have been protesting for the past five days to prevent the cutting of pine trees. Those who are leaving the country claim that India cannot be improved anymore. However, Uttarakhand is our last hope to at least improve our state. Do not cut down these large trees that provide us with oxygen. You have removed the upper canopy of the trees, allowing direct sunlight to hit the road, which will increase the heat. We are waiting until July 15 when the Supreme Court will issue its order on this matter. We have also filed a contempt petition against the court. They are cutting down trees in small sections. Soil absorbs moisture, and cutting trees during this season can cause significant environmental damage."