Massive Tree Cutting in Shivalik Hills: Tribunal Seeks जवाब from Punjab Authorities

The National Green Tribunal has taken serious note of large-scale illegal felling of valuable khair trees in protected forest areas of Ropar district, Punjab. Acting on a petition, the tribunal has issued a notice to the Punjab government and scheduled the next hearing for August 5, 2026. The मामला came to light through a petition filed by social activist and whistleblower Pradeep Sharma. The petition highlights illegal logging activities in forest areas located in the villages of Fatehpur, Bhagwali, and Bhangala. Allegations suggest that thousands of trees were cut down with the alleged involvement of senior officials from the forest department, pointing towards the role of a ‘timber mafia’. According to initial departmental findings, only around 150 trees were reported to have been cut. However, local sources estimate that the actual number could range between 2,000 and 5,000 trees. Notably, the Punjab and Haryana High Court had imposed a complete ban on tree felling across the state on December 24, 2025, which appears to have been openly violated in this case. The petitioner has alleged that the large-scale deforestation in the Shivalik hills has caused irreversible environmental damage. The loss of trees has disrupted wildlife habitats and increased the risk of soil erosion in the region. The petition further demands the formation of an independent committee comprising officials from the Central Pollution Control Board and the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to conduct a high-level investigation and take strict action against those responsible. Meanwhile, questions have also been raised over the ongoing probe by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau. The investigation was initiated after the issue was exposed by a media report nearly three months ago. However, local residents allege that due to political pressure, the inquiry has not yet reached any logical conclusion. Environmental experts have warned that if deforestation in the Shivalik region continues unchecked, Punjab may face severe water scarcity and long-term impacts of environmental degradation in the future.