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The Court noted that the State’s report did not mention the complete afforestation area and the number of trees that could be accommodated there. Further, a part of that area was adjacent to a city forest, i.e., trees already existed there.
The Court directed that no tree shall be cut, pruned or transplanted in any manner in Madhya Pradesh except with the prior permission of the Committee constituted by the NGT and the Tree Officer concerned till the next date of hearing.
“Clearly, it appears that respondents are not interested in protecting or transplanting any tree but are, in a rampant manner, cutting and destroying the entire vegetation that is coming in the way of alleged development.”
“The photographs placed on record of alleged transplanted trees show that none of the trees have been transplanted, rather the trees have been cut completely.”
The Court remarked that the news article displayed a shocking state of affairs wherein 488 trees were sought to be axed despite the NGT declining such an action and repeated orders by the Court.
“Geo tagging of all trees to be made mandatory so that accurate records of their location, type and number can be maintained. Geo tag data should be published and be made available and reported to the office of Chief Conservator of Forest.”
National Green Tribunal directed for necessary plantation to maintain the ecology in the area.