Bengaluru's Green Cover Shrinks to 3%: IISc Report Warns of Environmental Catastrophe Ahead

In the name of rapid development, Bengaluru - once hailed as the Garden City - is losing its greenery at an alarming rate. A shocking report by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) reveals that unchecked urbanisation and infrastructure projects are drastically reducing the city's green cover, pushing it toward an environmental crisis, as reported by TV9.

According to IISc scientists, Bengaluru had nearly 70% green cover in 1970, but that number has now plummeted to just 3%. The city, also known as Silicon Valley of India, is witnessing widespread tree cutting for metro expansions, white-topping roads, and other construction activities. This massive environmental loss has already triggered severe impacts, including rising temperatures and declining air quality.

Environmental expert Vinod Durta warns that unless corrective steps are taken, the city could face irreversible damage. "There is an urgent need to restore at least 10-11% green cover to reach the national goal of 33%. If not, Bengaluru will see worsening climate conditions," he said.

The consequences of green cover loss are dire. Environmentalist Ajay Chandra listed the likely outcomes:

• Increase in air pollution
• Drying of borewells and water scarcity
• Loss of biodiversity, affecting animals and birds
• Formation of urban heat islands
• Over 45% increase in solar radiation exposure
• Rising health issues among residents

The IISc report is a wake-up call. As Bengaluru continues to grow with infrastructure like metro rail lines and commercial buildings, the destruction of trees and shrinking green spaces have become routine. Will policymakers and citizens finally act to save what's left of the city's environment?