Arab News Japan

TOKYO: A confrontation between tree-loving activists and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is raging on the fate of some 900 trees that might be cut down as a result of an urban development plan in the Japanese capital.

Over 900 trees in the Meiji Jingu Gaien area of central Tokyo, many of which were donated, will be cut down due to redevelopment.

Part of the plan includes relocating the iconic Jingu Baseball Stadium and Chichibunomiya Rugby Stadium, which are both near the stadium that held the Olympics last year.

Tokyo Gov. Yuriko Koike made it clear at a press conference on May 27 that she asked businesses such as Mitsui Real Estate, Itochu Corporation and Meiji Shrine to take the feelings of local citizens into consideration when advancing the project.

The plan calls for the consultation of tree doctors, a detailed investigation and publication of the condition of the trees, as well as consideration for preservation or transplantation of as many trees as possible.

Koike said, “The key is to obtain the understanding and agreement of the local citizens, so we would like the businesses to respond accordingly and sincerely.”