Monsoon pause on tree felling for 2 months

Gurgaon: With the monsoon bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds and unstable soil conditions — “which can make tree-felling operations hazardous” — there will be a break from the activity from July 1 for two months.
The forest department has decided to focus on plantation drives for the next two months instead of entertaining tree-felling applications.
Also, monsoon gives the tree growth spur and thus they cannot be felled.
This is a positive move keeping in mind that development works over the years have taken a toll on Gurgaon’s green cover. The city’s protected forest area is 1,600 hectares, which is just 2% of its total area.
The forest department office generally receives a lot of requests for tree-felling on the last day of the season, keeping the staff busy in inspecting sites and giving permissions.
However, with the onset of monsoon, the field staff will be actively engaged in several plantation drives across the region.
A forest official said, “Firstly, the staff cannot effectively manage tree-felling requests alongside the planned plantation drives. The plantation activities require significant time, effort and resources. Secondly, it is not advisable to cut or trim trees during the rainy season. The risk of accidents and injuries to the staff and public is higher during this period. Moreover, the wet conditions can also hinder the proper disposal of the felled trees and debris leading to potential environmental concerns.”
By focusing on plantation drives, the department aims to enhance the green cover, improve the ecological balance and contribute to the overall well-being of the region.
The department has planned various initiatives, including sapling distribution, tree planting ceremonies and awareness campaigns.
Ecologist and wildlife researcher Sunil Harsana said, “Trees play a crucial role in the water cycle by collecting moisture and facilitating its percolation through their roots. This process not only nourishes the trees themselves but also helps in preventing floods by regulating the flow of water. During the rainy season, there is a noticeable surge in insect populations. Simultaneously, many bird species take advantage of this time to raise their young. Reptiles, seeking to avoid the damp ground, find refuge by climbing trees. In essence, the rainy season is a time when the entire biodiversity flourishes.”