(a) whether a large number of trees are felled/relocated for the construction of National Highways and toll free roads in various States including Madhya Pradesh during each of the last three years and the current year;
(b) if so, the details thereof during the said period, State-wise;
(c) whether compensatory plantation was carried out for the trees felled;
(d) if so, the details thereof, State-wise; and
(e) the steps taken/proposed to be taken by the Government in this regard?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF ROAD TRANSPORT AND HIGHWAYS
(SHRI R.P.N.SINGH)
(a) to (e) During widening and improvement of National Highways, existing trees are generally
preserved as far as possible. Where the cutting of trees is unavoidable, the executing agencies
take clearance from the concerned Government Departments. For major projects, environment
clearance which includes cutting of trees, is obtained from the Ministry of Environment &
Forests. Details of trees cut all over the country including Madhya Pradesh, is not maintained.
Requisite amount for compensatory afforestation is deposited with the Forest Departments.
At least twice the number of trees cut are planted under compensatory afforestation.