Madhya Pradesh, despite having the largest forest area in India, is witnessing a rapid decline in greenery, particularly in smaller cities. A recent Forest Survey of India (FSI) report reveals concerning data about forest and tree cover in 132 small cities. In this survey, 26 towns had zero forest or tree cover, and 12 cities had less than 1% greenery.
This survey is the first to analyse urban areas based on urban body boundaries, thanks to the Urban Development Department’s digital city mapping. The data, collected through satellite images, focuses on the forest area and tree status in these cities for 2023. It has shown that many small towns face severe environmental issues, with little to no green cover.
The best-performing cities in greenery are Chanderi, a living heritage city, and Chitrakoot, a religious city. These cities excel in maintaining green spaces. Betul’s Sarni also ranks high in greenery.
Many cities in the state are struggling. Singrauli, Morena, and Seoni Malwa have less than 1% greenery. Amarwara, Baikunthpur, and Begumganj have no forest or tree cover.
The FSI report highlights that major cities like Bhopal, Indore, Gwalior, Jabalpur, Ujjain, and Sagar were not included because their digital boundaries aren’t finalised. The data for these cities will be available in the 2026 FSI report.
This survey shows a clear need for better urban planning and environmental conservation in Madhya Pradesh’s small towns. The lack of greenery is a serious environmental concern, and steps are needed to restore and protect green spaces across the state.
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