Trees felled at Panjapur Green Park despite Court order, allege activists

Despite a directive from the Madras High Court to protect and conserve a portion of the Green Park at Panjapur in Tiruchi, several trees were reportedly felled to facilitate the construction of a market complex, allege environmental activists and residents.

In a recent order on a petition filed by a city-based activist against the cutting of 1,432 trees, which were once raised with public support at the park about 10 years ago, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court directed the State government to preserve 11 acres of the park along with the existing trees and necessary public facilities. The remaining 11.68 acres were earmarked for the development of an integrated vegetable and fruit market.

Following the order, around 297 trees were to be removed and transplanted to other locations. The civic body uprooted and relocated more than 120 native trees of neem, pungai, naaval, illupai, and marutham species along the service road of Tiruchi-Madurai National Highway near Mannarpuram. The remaining trees on the allotted 11 acres were to be retained and protected.

Recently, the Corporation commenced the construction of the market complex at a cost of ₹236 crore, sanctioned under the Infrastructure and Amenities Funds (I&A Funds), Capital Grant Fund 2025-26, and Corporation Fund 2025-26.

However, environmental activists allege that several fully grown trees have been felled within the designated park area, violating the court’s directive. They also called for a fresh enumeration of trees to maintain transparency.

“Many trees have been cut from the park, and a majority of the area is being used for construction. The Corporation should honour the judgment and clearly demarcate the park area and construction site. The 11 acres should be fenced to ensure protection,” said C. Balasubramanian, a civic activist.

Corporation officials have refuted the allegations, insisting that the development conforms to the approved layout. A senior official said that only the allotted construction area is being utilised and that trees, other than those relocated earlier, are being preserved.