Source: HINDU

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

Urban forests often the last green sanctuaries in India's rapidly expanding cities play a pivotal role in maintaining ecological balance, public health and urban resilience.

With increasing threats from urbanisation and real estate development their stability and protection have become more critical than ever.

Significance of Urban Forests in India

Ecological Functions

One hectare of urban forest can remove nearly 1 ton of air pollutants annually.

Trees absorb CO₂ and reduce greenhouse gases.

Reduce urban heat island effects, moderate temperatures.

Control runoff, soil erosion and prevent urban flooding. 

Health and Social Wellbeing

Access to green spaces improves mental health, reduces stress and encourages physical activity.

Reduces incidences of respiratory illnesses by filtering PM2.5 and PM10 particles. 

Biodiversity Conservation

Urban forests serve as habitats for birds, insects and animals ensuring ecosystem continuity in urban zones.

Protect endangered species from extinction due to habitat loss. 

Cultural and Recreational Importance

Facilitate nature-sensitive recreation e.g., walking trails, birdwatching.

Act as urban commons promoting community interaction and environmental awareness. 

Impact of Urbanisation

Kancha Gachibowli (Hyderabad)

400 acres allotted for industrial use, endangering biodiversity and tree cover.

100 acres of tree cover already lost prompting Supreme Court intervention.

Highlights conflict between development and environmental sustainability. 

Other Urban Forests Under Threat

Aarey Forest (Mumbai): Threatened by metro car shed; saved after citizen protests and judicial stay.

Turahalli (Bengaluru): Subjected to tree felling for infrastructure.

Delhi Ridge (Aravalli corridor): Protected through High Court orders.

Dol Ka Baadh (Jaipur) and parts of Bhopal and Allahabad faced indiscriminate tree cutting. 

Areas of Concern

Judicial Interventions and Constitutional Backing

Landmark Court Cases

T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad v. Union of India (1996): Broadened the definition of ‘forest’ under law.

Aarey Forest Case (2020): Supreme Court stayed tree felling, upheld citizen rights.

Delhi Ridge Case (2015): Delhi HC directed the government to notify and protect.

Baran, Rajasthan (2024): Suo motu action by Rajasthan HC against illegal tree felling. 

Constitutional Provisions

Article 21: Right to a healthy environment as part of the Right to Life.

Article 48A: Directive to protect and improve the environment.

Article 51A(g): Fundamental duty to safeguard natural surroundings. 

Policy Framework and Government Initiatives

National Forest Policy, 1988: Emphasis on social and urban forestry. 

National Mission for Green India, 2014: Focus on ecosystem restoration increasing forest cover. 

Smart Cities Mission & AMRUT, 2015: Emphasis on ecologically smart urban infrastructure. 

Nagar Van Yojana (2020–2027)

Aim: Develop 1,000 urban forests across India.

Progress: As per India State of Forest Report 2023, led to 1,445.81 km² increase in forest and tree cover.

Implementation Agency: MoEF&CC.

Objectives:

Integrate forest areas into urban landscapes.

Encourage community participation in conservation.

Provide sustainable recreation and educational benefits. 

Way Forward

Sources:

HINDU