Pune: The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has sought a detailed report from the Maharashtra government regarding the tree-cutting activities in the NIBM area. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had taken suo moto cognizance of the issue after it was highlighted in media reports and registered the matter for investigation.
Concerns about deforestation in the reserved forest area of NIBM were raised by citizens, prompting the NGT to act. The tribunal's Western Bench is currently hearing the case. During a previous hearing held on November 13, the NGT directed the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), MoEFCC, and the Pune District Magistrate to provide explanations regarding the reported deforestation.
While the PCCF and MoEFCC provided their submissions, the Pune District Magistrate failed to submit a response. As a result, the tribunal has once again ordered the District Magistrate to present their findings. The MoEFCC, in its statement to the NGT, confirmed that it has sought information from the state government and is awaiting their response.
The next hearing for the case has been scheduled for January 27, where the tribunal is expected to review the submissions from all concerned authorities.
The case has drawn significant attention due to the ecological sensitivity of the reserved forest area and the potential environmental impact of tree-cutting activities.
