PANAJI
The Tree Authorities in Goa will now have the power to decide on proposals seeking the felling of 100 trees or above.
According to a notification published by the Forest Department on Friday, any proposals that involve cutting down 100 trees or more will now be referred to the Tree Authority.
“In exercise of the powers conferred under Section 35 of Goa Preservation of Trees Act, 1984 and as amended from time to time, Government hereby directs that all proposals involving felling of 100 trees or above, irrespective of area for the purpose of construction of buildings, roads, factories, irrigation works, laying of electric, telephone, telegraphic and other transmission lines, shall invariably be referred to the Tree Authority, with immediate effect,” reads the order by Under Secretary (Forest) Nathine Araujo.
Until this notification, a minimum count of 500 trees was the requirement for seeking permission from the Tree Authorities located in both districts.
The Tree Authority was reconstituted in 2022 after the High Court of Bombay at Goa reprimanded the State for its failure to have a functional Authority since 2012.
