Jaipur’s Green War: Citizens Hug Trees to Save Dholakabad Forest from Bulldozers

In Jaipur, a powerful grassroots protest is unfolding as students, residents, and environmentalists hug trees to protect the endangered Dholakabad forest. Over 2,500 trees—including iconic khejri—face the axe for a ₹170 crore fintech park, PM Unity Mall, and housing complexes. Protesters argue this green belt near the airport is one of the city’s last "lungs," vital for cooling, pollution control, and biodiversity. Despite opposition, state agency RIICO is pushing ahead. Activists propose alternative land and a biodiversity park, urging development without destruction.