575 trees face axe for ‘Reshme Bhavan’ near Majestic, environmental concerns grow

Silk Department seeks approval to cut hundreds of trees in Okalipuram for Reshme Bhavan project, triggering public objections and environmental worries in central Bengaluru.

A major controversy has erupted in Bengaluru over the proposed construction of ‘Reshme Bhavan’ near Majestic, with 575 out of 628 trees facing possible felling. The project is planned on 4.2 acres of land belonging to the Silk Department in Okalipuram, close to the city’s busy central zone.

According to official details, the Silk Department has drawn up plans to build Reshme Bhavan on land located in Muddenahalli village, survey numbers 12, 14 and 17, where the Joint Director’s office currently stands. The entire area is densely covered with 628 trees, including Silver Oak, Neem, Tabebuia, Mahogany, Jackfruit, Gulmohar, Rain Tree, and Ashoka trees.

To clear space for construction, the department has sought permission from the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) to cut down 575 trees, while only 53 trees are proposed to be retained. The department has termed the project a prestigious government initiative and has requested early clearance by issuing a No Objection Certificate (NOC).

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The project had already received cabinet approval in 2024, and the Public Works Department (PWD) has been assigned responsibility for the construction. However, as per forest laws, no tree in Bengaluru can be cut without the approval of the Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF). As part of the approval process, a committee of tree experts has conducted a site inspection.

The Forest Department and GBA have invited suggestions and objections from the public, granting a 10-day window for feedback. During this period, residents, environmentalists, and civic groups are expected to submit their views.

Environmental activists have strongly opposed the proposal, expressing serious concern over the shrinking green cover in Bengaluru. They argue that cutting hundreds of mature trees in a congested central zone will worsen pollution, heat, and ecological imbalance. Several citizens have also questioned why such a large infrastructure project must be located within the city, suggesting that setting it up outside Bengaluru could support silk development across Karnataka without harming urban greenery.

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As public objections grow, the final decision now rests with the concerned authorities, making this project a crucial test of Bengaluru’s balance between development and environmental protection.