The Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) has announced stringent measures against industries and plot holders who fail to undertake compensatory plantation after felling trees within its industrial areas. A penalty of Rs100 per tree per month will now be imposed for delays in compensatory tree plantation, effective immediately.
Penalty Mechanism Under Tree Act
Under the Maharashtra (Urban Areas) Protection and Preservation of Trees Act, 1975, permission is granted for tree felling or transplantation for development works. However, developers and plot holders are required to plant new trees within a stipulated period as a condition of such approvals. MIDC officials stated that several instances had come to light where mandatory plantation was either not carried out or was significantly delayed.
To curb such violations, the corporation has introduced a penalty mechanism. Under the new rules, a charge of Rs100 per tree per month will be levied for the period between the date of tree felling and the actual plantation of replacement trees. The regulation has come into force with immediate effect and will apply to all plot holders and applicants within MIDC areas.
Impact on Green Cover
Officials said the stringent measure is expected to help preserve green cover in industrial zones and maintain environmental balance. The corporation has urged all stakeholders to complete compensatory plantation within the prescribed timeframe, failing which they may face substantial financial penalties. According to an MIDC official, “This penalty is designed to ensure compliance and deter delays in fulfilling environmental obligations.”
Streamlining Approvals for Smaller Proposals
In a parallel move to streamline approvals, MIDC has delegated powers to regional officers to grant permissions for tree felling and transplantation proposals involving 10 or fewer trees, provided no objections or suggestions have been received against the proposal. The decision is aimed at reducing delays in processing smaller applications.
Under the revised system, regional officers will be authorised to take prompt decisions on such proposals, with approvals to be processed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. MIDC expects the change to accelerate the clearance process while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
