Over 17,600 trees felled for Kanwar yatra route, says NGT report

A fact-finding panel informed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that over 17,600 trees were felled in Uttar Pradesh for the upcoming Kanwar Yatra route. The tribunal was reviewing a case concerning the alleged cutting of over 1 lakh trees in protected forest areas in Ghaziabad, Meerut, and Muzaffarnagar for the new route between Muradnagar and Purkaji.

In a November 6 order, NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava noted a Joint Committee submitted its interim findings, including officials from the Forest Survey of India, the Ministry of Environment, Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary's office, and Meerut district magistrate.

As of August 9, 2024, 17,607 trees were cut across three districts. Initial plans allowed 1,12,722 trees, but authorities revised it to 33,776. The NGT directed Uttar Pradesh officials to clarify whether the number of trees cut aligns with the U.P. Protection of Trees Act.

The tribunal emphasized the need for a detailed affidavit from the state's Environment Department, confirming the number of affected trees and whether any felling extended beyond the approved 15-20 meter width. The NGT called for a drone survey to verify the deforestation extent and directed the Surveyor General of India to provide satellite imagery comparisons from 2023 to October 2024.

The issue has raised concerns about environmental damage and the need for strict compliance with conservation laws. The NGT scheduled the next hearing for November 25, urging the Joint Committee to expedite its investigation and submit a comprehensive final report.

This case highlights the conflict between large-scale infrastructure projects and the need to protect India's diminishing forest cover, especially in ecologically sensitive areas. The Kanwar Yatra, a significant Hindu pilgrimage, involves millions of devotees traveling through these areas, leading to infrastructure expansions that have sparked environmental debates.

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