In the article under ‘FOOTLOOSE in Nagpur’ in CityLine dated May 28 of ‘The Hitavada’, the Editor Vijay Phanshikar has put forth the harsh reality of a heat-trapped Nagpur region. The summer of 2026 has shaken Nagpur city so much that everyone is feeling as if they are living in a desert. The cement road network in the entire Nagpur city is the prime cause of the soaring temperature graph. But the second important reason for temperature growth is the cutting of trees mercilessly. During the last 30-40 years, almost one-third of the green cover of Nagpur city has vanished due to ill-planning of developmental agencies and neglect of tree protecting authorities.

 

The callous attitude of citizens towards neglect of natural heritage is also a contributing factor for the harsh summer. The people of Nagpur should have been the saviour of the environment but of late they have drawn a ceasefire line with the administration. As nature is going berserk with its heatwave and other calamities, the attitude of people is increasing in adopting the trend of aggressiveness. Can you imagine the people dancing and enjoying songs on noisy DJ at marriage functions even in narrow lanes at a scorching heat of 45-46 degree celsius? The people of Nagpur region have to passionately and actively support the print media in redressing this serious problem. The developmental agencies may seek suggestions from the Geological Survey of India (GSI) Office at Nagpur to know which rocks will be suitable as road material for minimising the road heat.

 

The Engineering Geology Division of GSI has the expertise to suggest a suitable road material. The suggested road material will definitely lower the summer heat. Likewise, the State Government has to make more strict rules to safeguard the trees. The human beings are the most intelligent creatures on our beautiful earth. The people of Nagpur region are part of that ingredient. So our role to protect nature is paramount. The torturous happening of an unbearable summer in Nagpur is a clear indication that if one’s attitude is harsh with nature, then nature has the “natural Veto Power” to fire upon.