NewKerala.com

NGT's Tree Conservation Push: States Must Respond to CPCB Framework in 4 Weeks

The National Green Tribunal has given States and Union Territories just four weeks to respond to the CPCB's comprehensive tree conservation recommendations. This directive comes after the pollution control board outlined a detailed framework for protecting trees in non-forest areas. The tribunal specifically wants states to address how they'll conduct tree censuses in major urban centers. The case will now be heard again in January 2026 after all responses are submitted.

Key Points: NGT Directs States UTs Respond CPCB Tree Conservation Report

  • NGT directs States and UTs to respond within four weeks to CPCB recommendations
  • CPCB report calls for legal framework where tree protection laws missing
  • Tribunal seeks responses on conducting comprehensive tree census in urban areas
  • Recommendations include Tree Authorities with officials and community representatives
  • CPCB suggests using GIS and remote sensing for tree monitoring
  • Framework emphasizes capacity building and inter-state coordination
2 min read

NGT directs States, UTs to respond to CPCB's recommendations on tree conservation

National Green Tribunal orders all States and Union Territories to examine CPCB's comprehensive tree conservation framework and respond within four weeks, including tree census plans.

"take up the process of establishing the required legal framework - CPCB Report"

New Delhi, October 30

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday has directed all concerned States and Union Territories to examine and respond within four weeks to the Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) final report recommending a comprehensive legal and administrative framework for tree conservation and plantation.

The Bench comprising Justice Prakash Shrivastava (Chairperson) and Dr A Senthil Vel (Expert Member) was hearing a set of applications filed by the NGT Bar Association and Chander Prakash, concerning the promotion, preservation, and management of trees in non-forest areas.

Quoting from the CPCB's report dated May 21, 2025, the Tribunal noted that States and UTs not having a legal framework for tree protection should "take up the process of establishing the required legal framework" and that existing policies should be aligned with "the broader objectives of national forest conservation efforts."

The Tribunal further directed that the respondents should also respond on the conduct of a tree census, including modalities to be adopted for major urban local bodies across the States.

The CPCB's report outlined several recommendations, including the creation of Tree Authorities comprising officials, experts, and community representatives; use of GIS and remote sensing tools for monitoring; and prioritising capacity building, financial support, and inter-state coordination for effective implementation.

In the connected matter, the Tribunal allowed the applicant's counsel four weeks' time to file a reply to an additional affidavit filed by one of the respondents.

The Bench listed the matter for further hearing on January 27, 2026.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good initiative but implementation is key. In my city, we've seen many trees cut for metro projects without proper replantation. Hope this framework ensures accountability.
A
Arjun K
Including community representatives in Tree Authorities is a smart move. Local people know which trees are important for biodiversity and which ones need protection. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
S
Sarah B
While I appreciate the intent, four weeks seems too short for states to properly examine and respond. Rushed decisions often lead to poor implementation. Quality over speed please.
V
Vikram M
GIS and remote sensing tools will be game-changers for monitoring tree cover. This is the kind of technological advancement we need in environmental conservation. Great step forward!
M
Meera T
Hope this doesn't become another paperwork exercise. We've lost so many heritage trees in our neighborhood to construction. Need strict enforcement, not just frameworks. 🙏

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50