Massacre of 454 trees on the land intended for ashrams

• A 36-acre farmhouse, sold for approximately INR 400 crore
• An online application has been made to secure approval for the colony’s layout
• Land Deal Likely to Face Complications After Controversy

2024.09.16 (Vrindavan Today News): The land where 454 trees were chopped recently to develop residential colony was originally designated for ashrams according to the District master plan. As per its intended use, ashrams could be built on this land. Spread across approximately 36 acres, a significant portion of the farmhouse is situated on ashram land. However, instead of preserving its sacred purpose, a residential colony was being developed on this land. It is reported that the land deal amounts to approximately INR 400 crore (around USD 50 million). Even before the official map of the colony was approved by the authorities, a layout was drawn on paper, and most of the plots were booked. However, the registry of the land could only proceed after the trees on the property were removed. Consequently, trees were cut down to facilitate this. An online application has now been submitted to the local development authority to approve the colony layout.

Sources reveal that the entire transaction was known to officials across various departments. During a probe by the Forest Department, it was discovered that a residential colony was being developed on the land under the name “Guru Kripa Tapovan.” A layout plan was prepared at the local level, and plots were booked based on that plan. However, for the registration of the land and the handover of possession, it was necessary to remove the trees. In what appears to be a case of collusion, the trees were cut down to clear the way for the project.

It seems that those responsible did not anticipate the magnitude of the backlash the incident would generate. Sources suggest that some layouts had been previously approved, though authorities from the development board are now denying this.

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