Affidavit by Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), Chandigarh for protection of trees, 01/02/2024
Affidavit by Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), Chandigarh in OA No 911 of 2022 (Prof. Sanjeev Bagai Vs Department of Environment GNCTD).
The NGT, December 5, 2023 had directed the authorities to file their replies regarding the aspect of protection of trees against illegal felling, pruning of trees, framing of guidelines/rules and other ancillary matters related to trees.
The adviser to the Administrator granted approval to the Department of Forests and Wildlife, Chandigarh Administration to pass an order dated July 22, 2022 whereby the entire procedure for felling of trees in the city was laid down.
The order constituted the Tree Felling Committee (TFC) and all requests by the public for felling, pruning of trees are to be received online after which the request is forwarded to the Engineering/Horticulture wing of the Municipal Corporation/Forest Department respectively depending on the jurisdiction after which a preliminary inspection is done by Tree Felling Committee. In case the proposal is justified then it is passed on to the TFC otherwise it is to be rejected at the outset. Further, the order also provides guidelines regarding felling of trees/pruning.
The Chandigarh Trees Preservation Order, 1952 however, does not provide for any environmental compensation that may be imposed in case of any violation of order. The Department of Forests and Wildlife, Chandigarh Administration has framed a draft Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) titled as "Preventive Pruning Program" to streamline the pruning/pollarding of trees in the city of Chandigarh which is in the process of finalization. Once finalized, the pruning/pollarding will be regulated accordingly.