West Bengal, forest cover increased slightly from 2017 to 2019, while non-forest greenery (like urban trees) experienced a larger decline. Specifically, forest cover rose from 16,847 sq km to 16,901 sq km (a 0.3% increase), but non-forest greenery decreased from 2,136 sq km to 2,006 sq km (a 6.1% decrease). This overall trend is attributed to a combination of factors, including development projects leading to tree felling and inadequate compensatory afforestation. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Overall Forest Cover:

The India State of Forest Report 2019 showed a slight increase in West Bengal's forest cover. 

Non-Forest Greenery Loss:

The report also highlighted a more significant decrease in greenery outside designated forest areas, particularly in urban areas like Kolkata. 

Contributing Factors:

Activists attribute the loss of greenery to large-scale tree felling for development projects (like flyovers and construction) and the impact of frequent cyclones. 

Kolkata's Situation:

In Kolkata, decades-old trees with large canopies have been removed for road widening and bridge construction. The replacement saplings are often ornamental and not of the same ecological value, according to activists. 

Systematic Afforestation:

Green activists say there's a lack of systematic annual plantation efforts to offset the loss of trees and augment urban green cover. 

Specific Districts:

Several districts in West Bengal, including Cooch Behar, Dakshin Dinajpur, and others, have experienced a decrease in forest cover.