No trees cut outside permitted right of way for Kanwar Marg, UP govt tells NGT
The Uttar Pradesh government has denied claims that it cut trees beyond the allowed limits during the Kanwar Marg road project. In a recent affidavit submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), the state said all activity followed legal clearances. Officials said they stayed within the approved 20-metre corridor.
This road, built along the Upper Ganga Canal, helps improve access for Kanwariyas. These devotees walk for miles to collect holy water during the annual Kanwar Yatra. The project covers 111 kilometers and is designed to handle the increasing traffic during the pilgrimage.
FSI Report Triggers Legal Review
The Forest Survey of India (FSI) submitted a report using satellite imagery and field data. It claimed trees were cut beyond the permitted zone at multiple points. FSI’s joint director, Meera Iyer, led the analysis across 13 sample sites.
The NGT took the matter seriously and asked the UP Chief Secretary to investigate. It also warned of action if officials failed to follow the guidelines.
UP Govt Blames Technical Error for Confusion
The UP government responded with its own evidence. Officials said FSI’s data included a 7.5-metre wide canal ledge known as a “dole.” This space is not part of the road work, the government said.
According to the state’s engineers, the dole is a safety feature of the canal. It should not count toward the construction zone. They provided cross-sectional drawings and inspection reports to back up their case.
Tree Count and Project Progress So Far
The road project is about 62 kilometers complete. The government confirmed it cut 17,607 trees so far. These trees were felled under valid approvals.
The remaining stretch of 49 kilometers includes a new alignment. The revised plan will require the removal of 9,417 more trees and 1,299 smaller plants.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change gave in-principle approval to cut 112,722 trees for the project. This clearance came in February 2023 after a full review.
NGT Orders Fresh Satellite Check
The NGT wants to verify the situation independently. It has asked the Survey of India to carry out a satellite-based study. This will help confirm whether the state stayed within the 20-metre right of way.
The Tribunal also asked the UP Chief Secretary to submit a full report. If violations are found, the state must take action against those responsible.
Why the Project Matters
The Kanwar Marg project aims to ease pressure on roads during the Kanwar Yatra. Every year, millions of pilgrims walk long distances on foot, creating traffic jams and safety risks. The road will provide a safer, more organized path for both pilgrims and vehicles.
Despite this, many environmental groups are concerned. The Ganga canal region is rich in biodiversity. Conservationists fear that tree loss, even if legal, will damage the ecosystem.
Environmental Concerns Remain Strong
Environmentalists say the loss of over 100,000 trees could harm wildlife and air quality. They argue that the government should explore alternatives. Elevated roads, green alignments, or tree relocation are some suggestions.
Others have called for strict monitoring of compensatory afforestation. They want assurance that new trees will replace those cut down and will survive long-term.
The public remains divided. Pilgrims and local residents support the road for better connectivity. Environmentalists and scientists warn of long-term harm.
Need for Balance and Accountability
This case shows the ongoing struggle between development and the environment. Religious infrastructure is important, but so is the health of our ecosystems.
If the UP government’s claims prove accurate, the project may set a good example. It would show that development can happen within legal and ecological limits.
But if the FSI is right, the case could lead to stricter penalties and a review of future road approvals.
Conclusion
The UP government says it did not cut trees outside the permitted 20-metre zone for the Kanwar Marg project. The NGT has not made a final decision. It awaits reports from the Survey of India and the state.
This situation reminds us that development must respect environmental limits. The final verdict will shape how India handles similar projects in the future.
