Permission for axing only after spot inspection: DCF

It will take a final decision only after inspecting each and every tree that are identified to be cut for widening of roads by the authorities concerned.

Deputy Conservator of Forests Yatish Kumar who is holding additional charge of Mysore Circle, told Deccan Herald that in fact the matter came up before the meeting. However, he did not take any decision as he required some more time to study the requisitions submitted by the MCC.

The next meeting is likely to be held after 10 or 15 days when all the members of the authority attend it.

He said a number of organisations have filed objections to the MCC’s permission to cut as many as 201 trees in various parts of the city.

The Tree Authority cannot give permission without studying scientifically whether that much trees should be axed or not. At the same time, some persons too have given applications in support of cutting trees to pave way for widening of roads. The TA has to study both of them and then only it can take a decision. “Emotions will not work here.
Any decision to be taken by TA will be in larger interest of general public”.

Yatishkumar pointed out that it was not possible for TA to give a blanket permission for axing 201 trees without spot inspection.

He said he would personally be present when the authority members visit the trees which are identified for felling. Guidelines are laid down for giving permission to cut trees and the same yardstick will be applied in this case too.

Whatever decision to be announced will be done only after spot inspection. The government departments submit several proposals to axe trees in several parts of the city but it was the duty of TA to examine every application before disposing of the same.

Recently, the DCF said, the MCC had asked for the permission to cut a tree near the newly-constructed bridge adjacent to Karanji Tank. Upon inspection, it was found that the tree was no way affecting movement of vehicular traffic. Hence, permission was denied. There may be such cases in 201 trees too. The reality would be known only after the spot visit, he added.

It may be mentioned here that a large number of organisations had met Yatishkumar on Tuesday and had filed objections to the MCC’s proposed decision to cut 201 trees in the city for widening of roads.