Tree Committee

Tree Committee

The Tree Committee is an important committee responsible for environmental protection and greening initiatives in Grama Panchayats. The committee deals with matters relating to the planting, protection, maintenance, and, where necessary, removal of trees within the Panchayat area.

The committee is generally constituted in accordance with the guidelines of the Local Self-Government Department and the Social Forestry Wing of the Forest Department. Its major responsibilities and structure are as follows:

1. Structure of the Tree Committee

A Tree Committee constituted at the Panchayat level generally consists of the following members:

  • Chairman: Grama Panchayat President.
  • Convener: An officer from the Social Forestry Wing of the Forest Department, such as a Section Forest Officer or Beat Forest Officer, or an officer nominated by the Panchayat Secretary.
  • Members:
    • Chairpersons of the Development Standing Committee and Health & Education Standing Committee of the Panchayat.
    • Agricultural Officer.
    • Environmental activists / representatives of the public nominated by the Panchayat.

2. Key Responsibilities

  • Permission for Tree Cutting:
    Before removing dangerous or hazardous trees located in public places or along roadsides, the Tree Committee should conduct a site inspection. Based on the recommendation of the committee, the Panchayat may grant permission for the removal of the tree.
  • Road Development and Tree Removal:
    When trees have to be removed for the development of PWD or Panchayat roads, the committee determines the number of replacement trees that should be planted.
  • Compensatory Afforestation:
    When a tree is removed for development purposes, the committee should ensure that an appropriate number of replacement saplings are planted in accordance with the applicable rules and directions, including requirements for compensatory plantation wherever prescribed.
  • Plantation and Protection:
    In association with the Forest Department, the committee prepares programmes for planting suitable tree saplings within the Panchayat area on occasions such as World Environment Day and ensures their protection and maintenance.

3. Important Points for the Public

  • If a tree standing on private property poses a danger to the public or road users, the Panchayat may, based on the report/recommendation of the Tree Committee and in accordance with the applicable rules, direct the owner to take necessary action, including removal where required.
  • Cutting trees located on public property without the required permission is punishable under the applicable laws and regulations. The Tree Committee has an important role in preventing and addressing such violations.

The Tree Committee therefore plays an important role in balancing environmental protection, public safety, sustainable development, and the conservation of trees within the jurisdiction of the Grama Panchayat.