Tokyo begins tree removal for contested urban development project

This photo shows passerby walking under gingko trees lining Jingu Gaien Gingko Avenue in central Tokyo Feb17 2023 AFP-Yonhap — This photo shows passers-by walking under gingko trees lining Jingu Gaien Gingko Avenue in central Tokyo on Feb.17, 2023. AFP-Yonhap

SEOUL, October 29 (AJP) - Construction crews began removing trees in Tokyo's historic Jingu Gaien district, marking the start of a multibillion-dollar redevelopment project that has sparked protests from environmental advocates and cultural preservation groups.

The initiative on Monday, led by real estate developer Mitsui Fudosan Co., moved forward after receiving approval from Tokyo authorities for a modified blueprint that reduces the number of trees slated for removal to 619 from the initial 743.

The revised plan also increases the distance between a planned baseball stadium and the area's iconic ginkgo tree avenue to 18 meters.

Local demonstrators gathered at the site as workers commenced the tree removal, continuing months of opposition that had previously drawn support from cultural figures, including the late composer Ryuichi Sakamoto, and UNESCO's advisory body ICOMOS.

The project is scheduled for completion in 2036, though timeline adjustments are under review.

AJP

Tokyo begins tree removal for contested urban development project

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