Illegal Trees Cutting at Swaroop Sagar Area Raises Concerns


Illegal Trees Cutting at Swaroop Sagar Area Raises Concerns

Trees axed near new bridge; the Udaipur municipal corporation has denied involvement in cutting these trees
 
 
Illegal Trees Cutting Swaroop Sagar

Udaipur, January 16, 2025 - At the Swaroop Sagar lake area, near the new bridge leading to The Study School route, several small and large trees were recently axed. The trees are now lying in the lakebed. The municipal corporation has denied involvement in cutting these trees.

Suspicions Point to Hotel Operators
Local officials and residents suspect nearby hotel operators may have cut the trees to offer a clear lake view to tourists. This act has displaced many birds that used to nest in these trees. The Swaroop Sagar lakebed, from the new bridge to The Study School, is lined with large and small trees, including 10-12 feet tall ones. These trees provided a habitat for native and migratory birds. In just two days, five large trees and many smaller ones were removed.

Conservationist Raises Protest
Lake conservationist Tejashankar Paliwal has protested against the illegal cutting of trees. He shared photos and videos of the fallen trees with the authorities to take action. Legal experts explain that the Preservation of Trees Act governs tree cutting. A Tree Officer, usually a Forest Officer, must be informed and grant permission to cut trees.

When Trees Can Be Cut?

  1. If a branch or tree is damaged due to storms or natural causes and poses a risk.
  2. With prior approval from the Tree Officer, if there is a valid reason.

Penalties for Violations
Cutting trees without permission is illegal and punishable by law. Offenders can face up to one year in jail or a fine of Rs 1,000. Officers can also file cases with police assistance.

Source: Media Reports

To join us on Facebook Click Here and Subscribe to UdaipurTimes Broadcast channels on   GoogleNews |  Telegram |  Signal