Blitz Bureau
THE Supreme Court recently called for a tree census and a mechanism to prevent unauthorized tree felling in the environmentally- sensitive Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ).
A Bench comprising Justice Abhay S Oka and Justice Augustine George Masih issued notice in a plea seeking formation of a separate committee to conduct a thorough investigation of illegal felling of trees in Taj Trapezium Zone.
Counsel for the applicant alleged widespread illegal tree felling in the TTZ, including unreported incidents, and called for an independent investigation. Citing a reduction in forest cover by 9 per cent over the last four years, he urged the formation of a separate committee to oversee the issue and conduct a thorough inquiry.
Justice Oka underscored the importance of a tree census as a starting point for addressing the problem. The Court referred to provisions in tree-related laws that mandate tree census to maintain an accurate record of existing trees. The Bench also questioned which tree-related law was applicable to the TTZ and sought clarity on this matter.
Amicus curiae senior advocate ADN Rao suggested that apart from a tree census, the Station House Officer (SHO) of the concerned area should be made personally liable for unauthorised tree- felling.
