Madras High Court Directs Forest Secretary to Appear Over Funding Delays
The Madras High Court has issued a directive requiring Tamil Nadu Forest Secretary Supriya Sahu to appear before the court on February 27. This summons aims to address the failure to release funds essential for the maintenance of forest areas where invasive species have been removed. The court emphasized the critical need for timely financial support to prevent the regrowth of these harmful plants and ensure the success of conservation efforts.
Court's Detailed Orders on Forest Restoration
A special bench comprising Justice N Sathish Kumar and Justice D Bharatha Chakravarthy highlighted previous orders that mandated the creation of a separate account for funds generated from invasive species removal. These funds were intended for periodic maintenance work to achieve complete eradication. The bench stressed that without regular maintenance, invasive species would regrow automatically, undermining the entire conservation initiative.
Background and Current Financial Status
The special bench was established to handle cases related to forest conservation and environmental issues in Tamil Nadu, heard across both the principal bench in Chennai and the Madurai bench. During a recent hearing, it was revealed that the government has yet to release Rs 81.78 crore requested by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests for invasive species removal and maintenance. This matter remains pending before the government, prompting judicial intervention.
Judicial Concerns and Immediate Actions
Expressing grave concerns, the bench warned that delaying fund releases could lead to the automatic regrowth of invasives, rendering previous efforts futile. They asserted that immediate action is necessary to prevent derailing the conservation objectives. Consequently, the court ordered the Additional Chief Secretary to be present at the next hearing to address this urgent issue, underscoring the importance of governmental accountability in environmental protection.
