Maharashtra: State will impose a fine of INR 50k for illegal tree felling

The state cabinet on Wednesday gave permission to increase the fine for illegal felling of trees from INR 1,000 to INR 50,000. According to the decision of the Cabinet, the weapons, vehicles and boats used for felling trees have also been ordered to be confiscated. The Cabinet has given permission to make necessary changes in Section 4 of the Maharashtra Tree Felling and (Regulation) Act, 1964.

The state government is implementing various schemes to increase the greenery in the state. Forest Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar also made a statement in the last assembly session. According to Mungantiwar, the penalty is too low. A mechanism will be set up to permit felling of trees after verifying the authenticity of the permission within the prescribed time.

According to the Forest Survey of India, the tree plantation drive has increased greenery in non-forest areas with an additional 2,550 square kilometers of greenery in Maharashtra since 2015. The state ranks first in the growth of mangrove forests.

To encourage tree planting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the initiative 'Plant a tree in the name of mother'. There is a need for a clear policy on carbon credits generated by industries. It is proposed that for every unit of carbon emissions by industries, an equal number of trees should be planted. Accordingly, Forest Industrial Development Corporation (FIDC) has been set up on the model of Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC).

Farmers are encouraged to plant exotic tree species without any restrictions. The state is promoting agroforestry, with a subsidy of INR 175 for three years for eight species of bamboo. This subsidy will now be extended to 19,000 hectares. Besides, bamboo pallets will be used as an alternative to coal in thermal power plants. Regional Forest Officers have been instructed to hold meetings with local people's representatives every two months.

As Forest Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar told the Assembly, these meetings will focus on solving forest-related issues and problems specific to their region.