The e-auction for the cutting and removing 31 trees across the Belagavi Cantonment area concluded successfully with A K Hawaldar Wooden Packers emerging as the highest bidder. The firm offered ₹2,16,200 – surpassing the reserved price of ₹2,13,200 as evaluated by the Forest Department.
Three eligible bidders had submitted the requisite documents, which were verified on April 29, 2025. Following verification, they were allowed to place their bids on May 5, 2025, through the official e-auction portal. All three submitted competitive bids, with A K Hawaldar Wooden Packers securing the top spot.
The auction was initiated for the removal and disposal of various trees located in key zones of the cantonment including:
- Church Road Garden, St. Mary’s Church – 16 Nilgiri trees
- New Mochi Line, Thimayya Road – 4 Mango trees
- Thimayya Road – 1 Acacia tree
- St. Anthony Church – 1 Silver Oak tree
- Cantonment Board Office Premises – 4 Gulmohar, 3 Jungle Wood, and 2 Tapasi trees (with a mix of complete cuts and branch removals)
In total, 31 trees were listed for removal.
The Cantonment Board has reiterated that all necessary permissions have been obtained and that environmental norms have been followed.