MCC JE booked for cutting trees illegally

The earth moving machine was also seized, besides booking a case against the driver of the vehicle.

According to sources, the forest officials received complaint from the residents of Rajarajeshwari Nagar that trees are being axed by some persons. On the receipt of information, senior officials rushed to the spot.

By that time, four roadside trees taken care by the residents were cut. The residents were upset over the action of MCC and demanded severe action against the officer concerned.

Based on their complaint, the forest officials seized the earth moving machine and registered the First Information Report (FIR) against MCC Junior Engineer Rajesh and driver of the machine under the provision of ‘Tree Preservation’ Act for cutting trees without permission.

The sources said it was unbecoming on the part of MCC officials to take unilateral decision without bothering to take permission of the department concerned.
Stringent Act

The Act is quite stringent and those responsible are liable for prosecution. The trees were planted by residents and watering them daily. The residents are very much upset with the action of the MCC officials. The Forest Department would pursue the case till the justice is done for the residents, he added.

Sources told Deccan Herald that permission is must to cut any tree. There are several parameters to be followed before giving consent.

It is also mandatory for every department to seek permission from the Department of Forests failing which case would be booked irrespective of the officials involved in it, the sources added.