Indiscriminate felling of trees

These days there seems to be an impression among many in the administration that trees can be cut as soon as they grow tall. And the authorities concerned seldom take any action against them. At least we haven't heard of or seen any steps taken against anyone in this respect. Naturally some unscrupulous timber traders take advantage of the situation for huge financial gains through illegal means. And we, the common people, end up being victims of a group of greedy and selfish people.

We would like to take the opportunity to urge the Ministry of Environment to do something about such unabashed damages being done to our surroundings. If the trees cause any obstructions or block any passage, we have no objections to their being cut. At the same time, we strongly recommend that for every tree that's to be cut, there should be at least five new re-planted. Only then such tree cutting can be partially justified.

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The more frustrating thing is that felling of trees has been continuing even though there are laws in this regard with provisions for harsh punishments. The only way to put a stop to this is to enforce the existing laws and set an example for those who might think of indulging in such acts.

The complete indifference that we have been showing to this process of denudation demonstrates our insensitivity and greed more than our concern for a potential environmental disaster that such activities can bring about.