Tripura Government Fells 11,460 Trees for Road Expansion
By Discover Tripura Correspondent
Agartala, September 5, 2024 - The Tripura government has announced that 11,460 trees have been felled over the past two years and eight months to facilitate the widening of national highways across the state. This information was disclosed by Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma during the ongoing Assembly session.
In response to a query from Congress MLA Sudip Roy Barman, Minister Animesh Debbarma explained that the tree felling was conducted in accordance with guidelines from the National Green Tribunal and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. These guidelines simplify the process of permitting tree felling for linear projects under the Forest Conservation Act.
Sudip Roy Barman sought clarification on the number of trees that would be felled for future highway expansions, particularly between Champaknagar and Hathai Katar (formerly Baramura) hill. Minister Animesh Debbarma emphasized that while the Forest Department is committed to protecting trees, sustainable development necessitates some tree felling. Proposals from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways for highway expansion have been received, and authorities will follow specific rules and regulations in this process.
Animesh Debbarma also highlighted the environmental impact, noting that the state’s rivers dry up during the winter season. SudipRoy Barman expressed concerns that deforestation could exacerbate the drying up of the Howrah River and urged the government to avoid felling more old trees in the Baramura range.
Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Ratan Lal Nath outlined the government’s reforestation initiatives, stating that for every tree felled, 10 new trees must be planted for road and building construction. Additionally, Minister Animesh Debbarma mentioned that five lakh trees were planted on a single day on July 5th, with plans to plant an additional 76 lakh trees in the coming months.
In summary, the Tripura government has justified the felling of thousands of trees for road expansion projects, citing the need for sustainable development and adherence to environmental guidelines. However, concerns have been raised about the long-term environmental impact, particularly on the state’s rivers and forests.Tags: Tripura Others