NGT imposes ban on cutting of trees without permission

Noting that indiscriminate and illegal felling of trees would lead to environmental disaster, the National Green Tribunal has imposed ban on cutting of trees without clearance from the Centre and authorities.
A bench headed by Justice P Jyothmani passed the interim injunction while hearing a plea by Indian Institute of Sustainable Development.
The matter is fixed for further consideration on December 24.
"Taking note of the fact that indiscriminate and illegal cutting of trees will result in environmental disaster, we are of the view that the balance of convenience in granting the order of interim injunction is in favour of protection of the environment.

"Accordingly, there shall be an order of injunction against companies/authorities from illegally cutting trees in the forest areas in the whole of country to be used for charcoal without obtaining environmental/forest clearance or permission from appropriate authorities," the bench said.
The plea, filed through advocate Gaurav Kumar Bansal, has sought a restraint order against the companies/authorities cutting trees in forest areas without obtaining environmental clearance.

The plea has alleged indiscriminate cutting of trees was going on in states for using them as charcoal.
It had also sought a ban on use of charcoal as a fuel or raw material in the industries.

"Direct the respondents to prepare a Forest Management Plan and to implement the same in an effective manner," the plea said.