Punjab Residents Fight to Save Century-Old Trees from NHAI Road Widening Project
In Bathinda, a growing movement led by environmentalists and local residents is challenging a proposal by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to cut down over 100-year-old trees for a road widening project on the Barnala-Mansa stretch. The opposition centers on the ecological and cultural significance of the trees, which include species such as banyan, neem, peepal, and shisham (tahli), the state tree of Punjab.
Activist Actions and Legal Concerns
A pro-environment organization, Water Warriors, has taken proactive steps by sending emails to the Punjab chief minister, NHAI chairman, and Barnala deputy commissioner, demanding immediate intervention to halt the tree felling. Activist Gurpreet Singh Kahneke has begun painting slogans on the red-marked trees slated for removal in Rure Ke and Pakho Ke villages, drawing public attention to the issue.
Manjeet Singh, associated with Water Warriors, emphasized the critical importance of preserving these mature trees. He pointed out that Punjab's tree cover stands at a mere 3.67% of its geographical area, ranking among the lowest in the country. Manjeet warned that such large-scale tree removal contradicts directives from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the Punjab and Haryana High Court, both of which have repeatedly ruled against indiscriminate felling of trees for development projects.
Proposed Solutions and Potential Protests
To mitigate environmental damage, Manjeet suggested that the government should integrate large-scale 'mini forest' creation into all road and infrastructure projects. This approach, he argued, would help build resilience and offset the loss of trees. He issued a stern warning: if assurances for the safety of these trees are not provided, Water Warriors will launch protests against the NHAI and approach the high court, which has already imposed restrictions on tree-cutting across the state due to the low forest cover.
Official Response and Procedural Steps
Sangrur divisional forest officer Kaushal Kishore provided insight into the procedural aspects, stating that the NHAI has submitted a proposal under the Forest Conservation Act for approval. "The proposal has been sent to the nodal officer to assess how much area will be affected and how many trees are to be felled," he explained. "An objection has been raised under 'essential documents' for Rure Ke Kalan village. The regional office will grant clearance only after all non-negotiable documents are submitted."
This situation highlights the ongoing tension between infrastructure development and environmental conservation in Punjab, with activists and officials navigating legal frameworks to address the fate of these historic trees.
