
Collectorate Twin Towers Project Reshaped To Save 147-Year-Old Trees
MSIDC managing director Brijesh Dixit said that 42 trees originally stood within the project's footprint, including trees aged 147, 115, and 112 years. Rather than cutting them down, engineers changed the building design and applied advanced techniques to safeguard these natural assets.
A 'tree peat' method was used, allowing the roots to be protected without disturbance. Additionally, geo-textile materials were laid up to 20 feet deep around the roots to ensure their safety during excavation and construction activities.
These combined efforts successfully saved six mature trees, which were initially at risk.
While authorities already granted permission to fell 36 trees, MSIDC took additional steps to protect as many as possible. "These trees are not merely part of the landscape but represent the living heritage of the city. Our team worked diligently to incorporate environmental care into this massive infrastructure project," Dixit said.
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In parallel, MSIDC planted 1,735 new trees at various locations across Nagpur as part of compensatory afforestation. Dixit added that clear guidelines have been issued to project teams to prioritise tree conservation throughout the construction period.
The twin towers project is envisioned as a green building initiative, featuring extensive use of solar energy, energy-efficient design, and sustainable construction materials.
Set to rise on a 30,471-square-metre plot, the 12-floor building will house two auditoriums with capacities of 500 and 300 seats, respectively, along with parking for 450 four-wheelers and 1,200 two-wheelers.
As reported by TOI earlier, the project received a funding boost of Rs50 crore and Rs27 crore in two phases and is set to receive more as and when required. The total budget is Rs271 crore.
The demolition of older structures, including the tehsildar building, was completed recently to clear space for the new towers.
The heritage collectorate building will remain untouched and repurposed. Completion is expected by December 2027.
Officials confirmed that demolition work is now fully finished, digging and foundation activities are almost complete, and construction has commenced. They also assured that sufficient funds are available to maintain steady progress and avoid delays. By successfully blending heritage tree preservation with modern infrastructure development, the MSIDC is setting an example for environmentally conscious urban projects.
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