Roadside trees not to be cut in favour of commerce: Kerala HC to govt

The Kerala High Court has directed the state government to ensure no trees on roadsides are felled merely because they obstruct commercial activities. The High Court said that trees can be cut and removed only if they are in damaged condition and as a result pose a danger to public safety. A decision regarding that should be taken by a committee constituted in accordance with a 2010 government order regulating the felling and disposal of trees growing on government lands, Justice P V Kunhikrishnan said. "Without such a decision, no trees on the roadside of the State shall be cut and removed by any authorities. The Chief Secretary of the State shall issue necessary orders to that effect. "...the State of Kerala should see that no request to cut and remove trees on the roadsides of the State can be permitted without sufficient reasons. Trees give cool shades, pure oxygen and shelter to birds and animals," the court said in its order of May 22. The court's ruling came while dismissin