Karrada bids farewell to its trees: Road expansion sparks controversy over the future of the environ

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[size=52]Karrada bids farewell to its trees: Road expansion sparks controversy over the future of the environment in Baghdad![/size]

[size=45]Local authorities in Baghdad have begun the third phase of a tree-cutting project in the Karrada district, as part of efforts to widen streets and ease the increasing traffic congestion in the area, without providing any alternatives to preserve or move the trees. This phase, which is a continuation of the previous two phases, includes the removal of a large number of old trees that are part of the area’s heritage and environment.[/size]
[size=45]The decision sparked widespread controversy among the residents of Karrada, who see trees as part of the history and beauty of the area, and contribute to moderating its atmosphere in the hot weather. For their part, supporters of the project see the expansion as necessary to address the daily congestion suffered by residents, while others express their concern about the lack of alternative solutions that take into account the preservation of green spaces and compensate for the loss of trees by planning new green areas or replanting trees.[/size]
[size=45]Amid the criticism, the responsible authorities have not yet issued an explanation about the possibilities of improving the overall design of the project to achieve a balance between expansion needs and environmental protection.[/size]
[size=45]Environmental expert, Alaa Al-Saadi, stated that “cutting down trees in the Karrada area within the project to expand the streets and relieve traffic congestion, without putting in place well-thought-out plans or environmental alternatives, will lead to significant damage in the long term.”[/size]
[size=45]He explained that “trees play an important role in improving air quality and reducing pollution by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They also provide shade and contribute to moderating high temperatures, especially in light of climate changes that lead to a hot summer in Iraq.”[/size]
[size=45]He added that “randomly removing trees without replanting or providing alternative green spaces will negatively affect public health and increase levels of environmental pollution, which may cause an increase in respiratory diseases among local residents.”[/size]
[size=45]He also warned that “the loss of green spaces may contribute to increased desertification in the region, which is a major environmental challenge facing Iraq in recent years.”[/size]
[size=45]The expert concluded by saying, “Sound environmental planning requires achieving a balance between infrastructure needs and environmental conservation requirements, calling on the responsible authorities to adopt more sustainable policies that ensure reducing environmental damage and enhance the quality of life in the city.”[/size]
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