Urbanization Threatens Chennai’s Avenue Trees: Study Reveals Alarming Decline

A study by O.M. Murali and S. Rajarajan has revealed a worrying decline in Chennai’s avenue trees due to urbanization. The survey of trees along key roads in T. Nagar and Thiruvanmiyur found a marginal increase in total tree numbers from 2004 to 2024 but highlighted significant losses in older trees.

Human activities such as nailing, debris dumping, and construction damage have stressed many trees, with 241 out of 327 trees in T. Nagar and 111 out of 541 in Thiruvanmiyur showing signs of stress. The Greater Chennai Corporation acknowledges the issue, citing continuous urban works as a barrier to effective tree conservation and replanting efforts.