Lush Greens Get a Merciless Death
It was twenty-four years ago when we started constructing our home in Q Block. The serene atmosphere and lush green trees were major factors in choosing this land as our forever home. Once we moved in, the camaraderie of our neighbours, along with our extended families living nearby, made us feel deeply connected. Enjoying our morning and evening chai on the verandah or balcony during summer and basking in the winter sun throughout the day was an experience we cherished.
However, over the last decade, the charm of living here has been fading. As construction by builders intensified, the empty plot opposite our home turned into a dumping ground for construction materials and labour quarters. After supporting the construction of four neighbouring plots, the land itself was taken up by DLF for development. The relentless dust, noise, heavy trucks, and chaos stripped us of one of our biggest joys—sitting outside for fresh air.
The only solace was the five towering green trees, standing over 20 feet tall, and a few more shrubs, providing fresh air and shelter for chirping birds. But a few days ago, we were left in tears when the DLF Horticulture team, backed by an order from the Forest Department, arrived with electric saws and began chopping them down. Our hope that they would be trimmed rather than removed was shattered as eight trees were uprooted entirely. Many were not even obstructing access, yet they were mercilessly cut down.
Sadness engulfs us every day as we see the now-empty space. Deep down, we feared this day would come. How helpless we feel, knowing that a powerful developer, armed with official documents, can destroy nature within minutes, while dead and hazardous trees, which pose a real threat to homes and power lines, remain untouched – unless homeowners pay hefty fines just to have them trimmed for their safety.
