Monday, 20 December 2021 | PNS | Dehradun
A number of concerned citizens and public groups staged a protest demonstration on Sahastradhara Road against the planned felling of 2,200 trees for road widening on Sunday. The people staged a peaceful protest on the call given by Citizens For Green Doon (CFGD). The protesters pointed out that
11,000 trees are in the process of being felled for Delhi-Dehradun expressway while 2,200 trees are marked for felling on Sahastradhara Road and more are expected to be chopped for other ill-conceived projects. They said that tourist’s convenience is taking precedence over the environment and life quality of Dehradun residents. The government broadens roads for more and more tourists unmindful of the fact of this small valley town’s carrying capacity and its rising air and noise pollution. A protest had been held by citizens here earlier on September against the planned felling of trees. The protest on Sunday was organised following media reports last week about tenders being invited for the road widening for which the trees will be axed. The citizens demanded to be heard by their leaders.
Many in attendance said they are forced to rethink who they will bring back to power, who will choose their city’s health and wellbeing over money- who will walk the talk of sustainable development. A citizens’ signature campaign was done on the spot which along with a citizens demands manifesto will be shared with all political parties. Apart from concerned citizens, members of various groups including Khushiyon ki Udaan, The Friends Of Doon Society, The Eco Group, BTDT, Proud Pahadi, SDC Foundation, IDEAL Foundation, Hind Swaraj, The Earth and Climate Initiative and Titli Trust also participated in the protest.
