(a) whether the attention of the Government has been drawn to reports in the media regarding large scale destruction of trees in Uttar Pradesh;
(b) if so, the reaction of the Government thereto;
(c) whether the Ministry as well as the NGT have been apprised of the same by the people''s representative and if so, the details thereof; and
(d) the action taken by the Government on felling of trees against the officers found guilty in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) FOR ENVIRONMENT, FOREST AND CLIMATE CHANGE
(SHRI ANIL MADHAV DAVE)
(a) & (b) As per the report received from Uttar Pradesh Forest Department, no large scale destruction of trees in Uttar Pradesh has comes to light. However some instances of sporadic and small scale felling of trees are reported.
Whenever any incidence of illicit felling of trees is reported, the State Government constitutes a team of officers to enquire into such cases and, based on the enquiry reports, necessary action is taken against delinquent officials and the culprits.
(c) & (d) No such representation was received directly by this Ministry. However, a representation through the office of Governor, Uttar Pradesh alleging cutting of thousands of trees in Taj eco zone was received. The Government of Uttar Pradesh has constituted an enquiry committee to look into the matter. The Principal Bench, National Green Tribunal (NGT), New Delhi is also seized of the matter.
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