A reward of 25% of the fine will be given to the person who provides reliable information (with evidence) about the persons committing the crimes of dumping garbage and discharging liquid waste in public places and water bodies.
Tree Committee

Tree Committee

The Tree Committee is the key body that regulates environmental protection, afforestation, preservation, planting, and the necessary felling of trees in Grama Panchayats.

About the Tree Committee

Tree Committees are formed in accordance with directives from the Local Self-Government Department and the Social Forestry wing in Kerala. The primary objectives of the committee are the protection of trees within the panchayat limits, maintaining ecological balance, and managing tree cover in relation to development activities.

Structure of the Tree Committee

  • Chairman: Grama Panchayat President

  • Convenor: An official from the Social Forestry wing of the Forest Department (Section Forest Officer / Beat Forest Officer) or an officer nominated by the Panchayat Secretary.

Members:

  • Chairpersons of the Development / Health and Education Standing Committees of the Panchayat Committee

  • Agriculture Officer

  • Environmentalists / Public Representatives (nominated by the Panchayat)

Key Responsibilities

  • 🌳 Permission for Tree Felling: Before hazardous trees in public places or along roadsides are felled, the Tree Committee conducts an inspection and provides recommendations, based on which the Panchayat grants permission.

  • 🛣 Road Development: When trees must be cut down for road expansion, the Tree Committee determines the required number of saplings to be planted in replacement.

  • 🌱 Compensatory Tree Plantation: The committee ensures the enforcement of rules requiring the planting of ten or more saplings for every single tree felled.

  • 🌍 Afforestation: Prepares plans for planting and protecting saplings in collaboration with the Forest Department on occasions such as World Environment Day.

Things the Public Should Know

  • If trees on private property pose a danger to the public or commuters, the Panchayat can initiate action based on the Tree Committee's report.

  • Cutting down trees in public places without permission is a punishable offense.

  • The Tree Committee holds the authority to prevent such violations and safeguard the environment.

Importance of the Tree Committee

  • Ensures environmental protection and greening initiatives.

  • Preserves biodiversity by safeguarding tree cover.

  • Maintains a balance between development and environmental conservation.

  • Facilitates scientific and legal decision-making at the local Panchayat level.