Archive · 19 Jul 2026
Uttarakhand CM Halts Tree-Felling Amid Public Outcry
The Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Pushkar Singh Dhami, has stopped the cutting down of trees for a road expansion project in Dehradun.
This decision came after many people and environmentalists protested against the felling of over 4,000 trees.
They even marked a day called 'Black Harela' to show their protest.
The Chief Minister said that the government will talk to everyone involved and make sure that the environment and local people's feelings are considered.
The project includes measures to protect wildlife, like special paths for elephants and smaller animals.
The government says the project is important for development and has all the necessary approvals.
The Chief Minister has said that no trees will be cut until everyone agrees on the plan.
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami halts tree-felling for the Bhaniyawala–Rishikesh highway-widening project.
Over 4,000 trees were to be felled, leading to protests and 'Black Harela' being marked.
Project includes wildlife conservation measures like elephant underpasses and culverts.
Government to establish dialogue with locals, environmentalists, and experts before proceeding.
Tree-felling will remain suspended until a consensus is reached with all stakeholders.
- Who
- Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, environmentalists, locals, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)
- What
- Halt to tree-felling for the Bhaniyawala–Rishikesh highway-widening project
- When
- Announced on July 18, 2026
- Where
- Dehradun, Uttarakhand
- Why
- Public outcry and environmental concerns over tree-felling and wildlife impact
- Project Name
- Bhaniyawala–Rishikesh highway-widening project
- Number of Trees to be Felled
- Over 4,000
- Project Cost
- Rs 743 crore
- Project Length
- Approximately 20 kilometers
- Wildlife Conservation Measures
- 3.5-kilometre-long elephant underpass and special culverts for smaller wildlife
- Project Execution Mode
- Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM)
- Public Protest
- Marked 'Black Harela' to protest the project
- Trees Felled Before Halt
- 350
