The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has stepped in following a major environmental violation in the heritage city of Mysuru, directing authorities to investigate the unauthorized felling of dozens of trees. The case pertains to the shocking chopping down of approximately 40 mature trees along the prominent Hyder Ali Road, an act that has sparked public outrage and legal scrutiny.
NGT Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of the Incident
The Southern Zone bench of the NGT, based in Chennai, initiated proceedings on its own after taking note of the incident through a media report published on April 24, 2024. The tribunal expressed serious concern over the large-scale tree cutting, which reportedly occurred without the necessary permissions from the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) or any other competent authority. The bench, comprising Justice Pushpa Sathyanarayana and expert member Satyagopal Korlapati, has now issued formal orders to get to the bottom of the matter.
The judicial body has specifically called for a detailed factual and action-taken report from key officials. The respondents named in the order include the Commissioner of the Mysuru City Corporation, the Mysuru Urban Deputy Commissioner, and the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB). They have been directed to explain the circumstances that led to the destruction of the green cover and what steps are being taken against those responsible.
Details of the Environmental Damage
The tree felling took place on the stretch of Hyder Ali Road near the Mysuru City Railway Station. Eyewitness accounts and reports indicate that workers, allegedly engaged by a private entity, cut down the trees using machinery. The felled trees included mature specimens that had been part of the city's landscape for years, contributing to its aesthetic value, air quality, and ecological balance.
Local residents and environmental activists raised the alarm, questioning the legality of the operation. Initial investigations suggested that the Mysuru City Corporation's Tree Officer was not informed, and no permission was sought under the relevant laws, including the Karnataka Preservation of Trees Act, 1976. This act mandates obtaining approval before cutting any tree, especially on public land.
Legal Implications and Next Steps
The NGT's intervention underscores the legal gravity of unauthorized tree felling. The tribunal has registered the case under the standard reference number Suo Motu No. 02/2024 (SZ). By issuing notices to the civic and pollution control authorities, the NGT has set in motion a formal inquiry process. The concerned officials must now investigate and submit their report, which should cover:
- The exact number and species of trees cut down.
- The identity of the individuals or organization that carried out the act.
- The purpose behind the tree felling.
- Whether any permissions were applied for or granted.
- The legal and punitive actions initiated against the violators.
- Plans for compensatory afforestation or environmental restitution.
The NGT's order is a significant move towards ensuring accountability in urban environmental governance. It sends a clear message that unauthorized destruction of green cover will not be tolerated, especially in a city like Mysuru which prides itself on its gardens and tree-lined avenues. The case will be monitored closely by environmental groups and citizens alike, awaiting the authorities' report and the subsequent directions from the green tribunal.
