Chennai's Green Warrior: Saving Trees for Two Decades

For twenty years, the environmental NGO Nizhal has been a steadfast protector of urban trees in Chennai. An early struggle in 2007 to save nearly 80 old rain trees highlighted the need for action, prompting Nizhal to undertake tree mapping and documentation. Today, Nizhal influences state green committees, successfully intervening in projects to save trees designated for stormwater drains and metro rail construction. For instance, on Sardar Patel Road, their advocacy resulted in saving a third of threatened trees, with another 12% transplanted.

Nizhal's initiatives extend beyond protection, encompassing sensitive planting and community engagement through tree walks. They also spearheaded the 'Free the Tree Campaign' against tree abuse and transformed a five-acre dumpyard into the Kotturpuram urban forest. The organization has consistently pushed for a dedicated Tree Act for Tamil Nadu since submitting a proposed draft in 2009.

Current efforts focus on advocating for proper tree maintenance, scientific pruning, and developing SOPs for urban parks that prioritize ecological services over concrete structures. Nizhal also raises concerns about the indiscriminate promotion of Miyawaki forests. Despite these efforts, Chennai's tree cover remains at 14%, significantly below the recommended 33%, underscoring the ongoing need for government action and community sensitization.