The Eucalyptus Invasion: Tipu Sultan's Impact on Bangalore's Ecosystem

What could be the consequences of introducing an innocuous-looking tree into a new ecosystem? It might initially replace some native species or even enhance the gardens and flora of the area. But it might even affect the whole ecosystem of the region, which is exactly what happened to Banglore after Tipu Sultan introduced eucalyptus trees in the city, to enhance its already lush gardens.

An old eucalyptus tree, Source: Marie Claire on Flickr

Throughout India's history of colonisation, the influence of colonisation on its flora remains a relatively lesser-explored aspect, often overshadowed by more leading aspects of colonial impact. The story starts when the colonists brought their plants and beautiful flowers to India, in order to make it slightly home-like for them. As a result, the number of exotic and invasive flora increased in India, affecting its ecology.

However, before the British and other Europeans brought in their flowers and plants, Tipu Sultan had already started this quest in the 1700s. Tipu Sultan received the seeds for around 16 species of Eucalyptus from Australia, and he planted them in today’s Bangalore for their ornamental value, to enhance the beauty of the city’s gardens.

16th century Bangalore, located in the heart of the Indian subcontinent was founded by Kempe Gowda I. The city was known for its lakes and lush greenery, owing much to the visionary efforts of Kempe Gowda who prioritised the water resources and their management. He went on to build numerous lakes to cater to the city’s demands, these lakes were interconnected by an intricate web of canals known as Kaluves. Expectedly his successors continued the tradition of keeping the city green and cool.

However, this changed with the growing population of the city and the ever-growing demand for the burgeoning lifestyle of consumption. But a turning point came when Tipu Sultan became the ruler of the Mysore Kingdom. A seemingly innocuous tree was planted throughout the city by him– eucalyptus. This was part of a quest to beautify the city along with other varieties of flora the Sultan received as gifts.

The first tree was planted in the palace garden of Tipu Sultan on Nandi Hills near Bangalore and soon the species took over the ecology of the city. The species which thrived the most was the Eucalyptus hybrid, which was imported from Australia. Besides the ornamental value, it was also valued for its rapid growth and ability to meet rural needs such as firewood and shelter.

What started as a quest to continue the legacy of the rulers of Bangalore to maintain the reputation of the city as being a sanctuary of lakes and trees, ended up with a much worse tale. Because of the usefulness of the eucalyptus, at least in the short term, it was prioritised over other native species. With time, the pulp industry also started developing and the need for eucalyptus as raw material also increased, leading to continuing its plantation despite the visible harm it was causing.

The major accusation faced by the eucalyptus plantation is its water consumption which takes a toll on the already diminishing water resources of the city. But there are other problems such as how it also makes the soil acidic and exhibits allelopathic effects, hindering the growth of other vegetation. Nonetheless, a careful study would reveal it is not just the eucalyptus which is to be blamed, but also the way it is being cultivated, as a monoculture species and on a large scale to satiate the commercial demands. Otherwise, limiting the number of eucalyptus trees planted and doing away with monoculture can be a positive step.

Although Tipu Sultan intended to enhance the beauty of the city through gardens and lakes, to add to its natural botanical diversity, the consequences of his decision continue to reveal themselves through the degradation of Bangalore's ecosystem today. This tale serves as a poignant reminder of seemingly innocuous actions that can have far-reaching consequences on the balance of the natural world. The garden city of yesterday is turning into a concrete jungle today, grappling with problems of pollution and water scarcity. The blame is not completely on the eucalyptuses, but they do have a role to play.