Environmental Concerns Drive Himachal Pradesh’s Supreme Court Appeal on Tree Felling

The Himachal Pradesh government is set to challenge a High Court directive on tree felling in the Supreme Court, with a focus on the environmental repercussions of removing trees from encroached forest areas. Revenue, Horticulture, and Tribal Development Minister Jagat Singh Negi expressed disapproval of the tree-felling, arguing it contradicts ecological preservation principles. He underscored that the practice of cutting down mature trees, including those bearing fruit, is not justifiable, particularly in the context of ongoing efforts to manage illegal encroachments. The government’s primary concern is the potential for severe environmental damage, such as soil erosion and increased flood risks, which could be exacerbated by the removal of the trees, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall and landslides. Besides, Negi provided updates regarding the restoration efforts after the monsoon devastation and ordered an inquiry into the death of a pilgrim during the Shrikhand Mahadev Yatra.