The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken a firm stance on discrepancies regarding tree cutting and planting in Bhopal. It has ordered the Bhopal Municipal Corporation and Forest Department to submit sworn affidavits detailing data from the last five years.
NGT’s Concerns and Required Data
NGT’s main concern involves 4,105 trees cut in Bhopal, particularly from the Kolar area. The tribunal asked for information on how much money was collected for replanting and how those funds were used.
Furthermore, NGT expressed dissatisfaction over the lack of precise data regarding the survival rate of planted trees. They also criticized the failure to follow guidelines for planting 5-foot tall saplings.
In addition, no separate fund account was found for tree cutting and compensation. This raised more concerns, prompting NGT to demand clear, documented evidence.
Impact on Air Quality and Future Actions
During the hearing, NGT emphasized that further deterioration of the city’s air quality could trigger the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This plan would include a halt to construction activities, dust control measures, and other strict steps to combat pollution.
Additionally, five members of the Pollution Committee have been summoned to attend the next hearing and provide their responses.
Allegations of Inadequate Tree Planting
Environmental advocate Nitin Saxena, representing the case in NGT, criticized the Bhopal Municipal Corporation. He claimed that no trees were planted to replace the 4,000 trees that were cut down. Despite claims of replanting, the required saplings were never planted at the designated locations.
The environmental guidelines clearly stated that for every tree cut, four saplings should be planted, each five feet tall. However, these regulations were not followed.
Political Reactions and Accountability
Congress leader Vivek Tripathi criticized the government for failing to account for the large number of trees cut in the name of development. He stated that the government had never provided a clear record of how many trees were replanted.
In response, BJP spokesperson Shivam Shukla defended the government. He stated that the government had followed the planting guidelines whenever trees were cut. He assured that the government would strongly present its case at the next NGT hearing.
