TANGMARG, 1 January 2025 – The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued notices to several Jammu and Kashmir government officials, including the Chief Secretary, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Block Development Officer (BDO) Lalpora Tangmarg, and others, over the alleged felling of over 1,000 trees in Sonium Lalpora village and the diversion of a local stream for a playground project.
A complaint filed in the matter said that the BDO Lalpora and the former Sarpanch of Sonium village were responsible for cutting down more than 1,000 trees, including 600 willow trees, 300 poplar trees, around 100 acacia and rubina trees, and 10 walnut trees.
Besides, part of the Badyari stream was diverted to make way for the playground, reportedly violating the Jammu and Kashmir Preservation of Specified Trees Act, 1969, and the National Water Policy 2012.
According to the complaint, the BDO had sought a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the diversion. However, the Assistant Executive Engineer of the Irrigation and Flood Control Department rejected the request on February 23, 2024. The Engineer had directed the BDO to halt the unauthorized activities and restore the stream’s original course, but these instructions were reportedly ignored.
The issue was raised before the NGT by RTI and climate activist Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat who submitted a representation on October 14, 2024, but did not receive a response.
Dr. Bhat provided evidence of his communications with various officials, including the Chief Secretary and the BDO.
The NGT's two-member bench, comprising Justice A K Tyagi and Dr. Senthil Veil, reviewed the petition and noted the environmental concerns outlined under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.
The bench has directed the respondents to submit their replies by March 25, 2025. Dr. Bhat has been tasked with serving notices via email and registered post, and filing an affidavit of service within 15 days. The next hearing is set for April 1, 2025.
(With KNO Inputs)