A human chain to save 2500 trees that risk being demolished (to make room for a shopping center)

In Jaipur, in the heart of Rajasthan in Indiaone is growing one popular mobilization against the demolition of about 2,500 trees in the forest area of Dol ka badh. Hundreds of citizens – young people, elderly people, families, activists and students – have united the forces forming one human chain To stop what they consider a imminent environmental disaster.

The reason for the protest is the construction of the First minister Unity Mallan ambitious project promoted by the state government in collaboration with the Riico (Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation). The affected area is approximately 100 acresand in addition to the shopping center, the development of a Fintech Park and others commercial structures.

But the price to pay, according to the demonstrators, is too high: the disappearance of a fundamental part of the green lung of Jaipur Sud. The Dol Ka Badh area hosts not only thousands of trees, including specimens of Khejriconsidered vital for ecological balance, but also one very rich biodiversity. The volunteers of the campaign also have Geolocalized the trees to document the abetting that has already taken place.

There was a drastic decrease in the number of birds in the area

One of the most worrying aspects is the drastic decrease in the number of birds in the area. They counted beyond 80 different species who regularly visited the area, but the presence of animals has decreased since the construction works started. According to activists, it would have been possible to limit the environmental impact using only 30 acres with low arboreal densityleaving the most rich spaces of vegetation intact.

The demonstrators also denounce one political contradiction: the current deputy prime minister Diya Kumari, today in favor of the project, was openly contrary to the demolition of trees when it was in the opposition. This change of position has aroused strong criticism by the environmental community.

The “Save Dol Ka Badh” campaign has now become a symbol of civil resistancecapable of attracting the media attention and adhesion of numerous young people. Their request is clear: protect urban green and ensure that economic development does not take place at the expense of the environment and public health.