Tree Committee
Tree Committee
The Tree Committee is a crucial body for environmental protection and greening initiatives within Grama Panchayats. This committee oversees matters related to the planting and protection of trees within the Panchayat's jurisdiction, as well as their removal when absolutely necessary.
Formed in accordance with the directives of the Local Self-Government Department and the Social Forestry Wing of the Kerala Forest Department, the committee's structure and key responsibilities are as follows:
1. Structure of the Tree Committee
Typically, the Tree Committee formed at the Panchayat level comprises the following members:
Chairman: Grama Panchayat President.
Convener: An official from the Social Forestry Wing of the Forest Department (e.g., Section Forest Officer or Beat Forest Officer) or an official designated by the Panchayat Secretary.
Members:
Chairpersons of the Development Standing Committee and the Health & Education Standing Committee of the Panchayat governing body.
Agriculture Officer.
Environmental activists/Public representatives (nominated by the Panchayat).
2. Key Responsibilities
Permission for tree felling: Before removing trees located in public spaces or along roadsides that pose a danger, the Tree Committee must visit and inspect the site. The Panchayat grants permission to cut down a tree based on the committee's recommendation. Road Development and Tree Felling: When trees need to be cut down for the development of Public Works Department (PWD) or Panchayat roads, this committee determines the number of trees to be planted as compensation.
Compensatory Afforestation: The committee must ensure the implementation of the rule requiring that ten or more saplings be planted for every tree cut down for development purposes.
Planting and Protection: Formulate plans to plant suitable saplings and ensure their protection within the Panchayat area, in collaboration with the Forest Department, on occasions such as Environment Day.
3. Information for the Public
If trees on private property pose a danger to the public or commuters, the Panchayat can issue a directive to have them cut down, based on the Tree Committee's report.
Felling trees in public places without permission is a punishable offense. The Tree Committee has the authority to prevent such violations.
