Bengaluru: The proposed Hebbal short tunnel alignment passes through an ecologically rich area where 92 tree species and 199 bird species have been recorded, including two bird species of conservation significance, a rapid environmental impact assessment by Azim Premji University researchers has found.Researchers Harini Nagendra, Seema Mundoli, Prachi Gupta and Vivek G surveyed 1,128 trees along the 2.2km alignment for removal or transplantation. The inventory includes 36 trees with girths ranging from 200cm to 800cm, including a banyan with an 800cm girth and a Mysore fig with a 600cm girth.The survey identified 63 Madras thorn trees, 31 jamun and 13 jackfruit trees. Flowering species included 67 Pongamia, 57 gulmohar, 45 yellow copperpods and 30 rain trees. Other species included guava, tamarind, coconut, Singapore cherry and gooseberry. The trees have collectively sequestered an estimated 77 metric tonnes of carbon.Data from eBird and iNaturalist showed 199 bird species recorded in the area over the past decade. They included the greater spotted eagle, classified as vulnerable, and the spot-billed pelican, classified as near threatened on the IUCN Red List. About 50 waterbird species were recorded around Hebbal Lake.The Oct 21 assessment covered 12 stretches. It identified 165 trees marked for removal within Hebbal Lake premises along Ballari Road and another 159 within University of Agricultural Sciences staff quarters. Earlier citizen-led surveys had identified 72 tree species along the affected stretch, while eBird records showed 183 bird species around Hebbal Lake and 95 on the Veterinary College campus.
