A scandal is ongoing in Kyiv over the mass cutting down of trees, which has sparked outrage among residents and civic activists.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Kyiv Residents’ Outrage Over Cutting on Pryrichna
Recently, the situation with green spaces in the capital has reached a critical point — instead of caring for the trees, the enterprise ‘Kyivzelenbud’ is reportedly destroying them, according to residents. The former head, Yuriy Bakhmat, and several officials are already under investigation for suspected corruption.
The most significant outrage among Kyiv residents was caused by the recent nighttime cutting down of sixty trees on Pryrichna Street in the Obolon district. Activists from the organization ‘Park Pryrichna’ are convinced that the real reason for the destruction of the trees is the upcoming construction of a multi-level parking garage, known among locals as ‘Klitschko’s Aqua Parking.’ Local residents are categorically opposed to this project; however, the city’s mayor, Vitaliy Klitschko, insists that the creation of the parking facility is necessary for ‘the safety and comfort of visitors.’
Violation of Legislation and Public Position
As reported by residents on social media, the destruction of green spaces did not receive the necessary permits from the municipal organization ‘Kyivzelenbud.’ Of the 60 felled trees, 20 had trunk diameters ranging from 20 centimeters to one meter, while the rest were up to 20 centimeters. Such actions without the appropriate documentation are a gross violation of the law.
“In my opinion, this is criminal activity by ‘Zelenbud,’ which behaves this way. Every ‘Zelenbud’ has its own sawmills, where you can go and see where they take the timber. I know they have contracts with companies that grill kebabs. So, ‘Kyivzelenbud’ is essentially engaged in timber harvesting. Old trees produce more oxygen, trap dust, create shade, and help reduce heat. And what do young trees provide? Practically nothing. The name is ‘Zelenbud,’ but in reality, it’s the destruction of trees,” says environmental activist Volodymyr Boreiko.
Capital residents have appealed to the city authorities demanding the liquidation of ‘Kyivzelenbud.’ A corresponding petition has already been registered on the Kyiv City Council’s website. The basis for this initiative is not only the corruption scandal and the arrest of the former head but also the systematic destruction of green spaces, which, according to residents, harms the environment and the quality of life in Kyiv.