Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre has directed a Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) to investigate the issue following a story which reported that the Forest Department had allegedly allowed 1,118 trees to be felled in a coffee plantation in Kodagu district.
An article published ‘Forest Department Approves Cutting of 1,118 Trees in Kodagu Plantation; Environmentalists Cry Foul’ on August 6. It deals with accusations that the Forest Department gave permission for the removal of 864 trees of different types and 254 rosewood trees at Nokya near Siddapura village Ponnampet taluk South Kodagu.
Consequently, Mr. Khandre issued orders to Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Head of Forest Force) to have CCF carry out investigations and submit report within four days.
“A CCF officer will investigate and submit a report within four days. In case it is established that landowners cut down trees without proper authorization or officials granted permission unlawfully then action needs to be taken against such people,” Mr. Khandre said in his order.
Cauvery Sene, an environmental group from Kodagu opposed Forest Department’s alleged decision to permit tree cutting vehemently arguing that this area is close to Nagarhole Tiger Reserve which is an eco sensitive zone designated by the Union Ministry Of Environment, Forest And Climate Change.
“We welcome Mr. Khandre’s prompt move to carryout investigation into this matter,” said K.A Ravi Chengappa president Cauvery Sene while talking to The Hindu adding: “There are many environmental issues facing Kodagu already but especially illegal tree cutting. Such matters should be fully investigated. There are huge timber mafias who wish nothing better than ruining our environment here in Kodagu. We commend the Minister for addressing this particular issue.”
