The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken suo motu cognizance of the alarming disappearance of 6 million trees from farmlands, particularly in the states of Telangana and Maharashtra. This move follows observations by the tribunal’s chairperson, judicial, and expert members regarding the extensive deforestation in these regions.
Introduction
In a significant environmental concern, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has initiated a suo motu case concerning the loss of approximately 6 million trees across farmlands in India. The Tribunal has issued notices to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and the forest departments of Maharashtra, Telangana, and Madhya Pradesh, urging immediate action and accountability.
Massive Tree Loss in Central India
Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, judicial member Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi, and expert member Dr. A Senthil Vel have noted that the disappearance of mature farmland trees was particularly severe in Telangana and Maharashtra. These regions have seen an extraordinary reduction in tree cover, with some areas losing up to 50% of their large farmland trees.
“The disappearance of mature farmland trees was observed in many areas, but numbers rarely exceed five to 10%, except for areas in central India, particularly in Telangana and Maharashtra, where massive loss of large trees was observed,” the order dated July 4 stated.
Basis of the Case
The Tribunal registered the matter suo motu based on an article published in The Hindu, titled ‘Nearly 6 million trees disappeared from farmlands: study.’ According to the article, the extensive tree loss occurred between 2018 and 2020, affecting not only Telangana and Maharashtra but also parts of Madhya Pradesh, particularly around Indore.
Hotspot Areas of Tree Disappearance
In its observations, the NGT highlighted several hotspot areas in Telangana and Maharashtra that had lost up to 22 trees per square kilometer. The loss of tree cover in these regions represents a significant environmental crisis, potentially affecting local ecosystems, agriculture, and climate resilience.
Legal Implications and Notices
The NGT has determined that the situation described in the news article indicates a violation of the Environment Protection Act and the Forest (Conservation) Act. Consequently, the Tribunal has issued notices to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, as well as the Principal Chief Conservators of Forests of the affected states, demanding explanations and remedial measures.
Upcoming Hearing
The matter is scheduled to be heard along with another case concerning broader issues of encroachment in the country on July 31. The NGT’s proactive stance underscores the urgency of addressing deforestation and ensuring the enforcement of environmental laws to protect India’s natural heritage.
Conclusion
The loss of 6 million trees from farmlands is a stark reminder of the environmental challenges facing India. The NGT’s intervention highlights the need for stringent measures to prevent further deforestation and to promote sustainable land management practices. As the Tribunal continues to monitor the situation, it is crucial for the involved states and the central government to take decisive action to restore and protect the country’s forest cover.
