Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed the authorities in Punjab to re-consider its decision to fell more than 1100 trees for the widening of Morni-Panchkula road, by exploring other options and alternatives to save the trees.
The Division Bench, comprising Chief Justice Ravi Shanker Jha and Justice Arun Palli paased the order on January 17, while disposing of a petition filed by one HC Arora in person.
The petitioner alleged that he had submitted a representation on January 6, 2022, to the Chief Secretary of Haryana government, requesting that all steps and alternatives be considered for saving as many trees as possible. However, the respondents were going to cut down the trees without first considering all alternatives, he added.
Deepak Balyan, Additional Advocate General appearing on behalf of the respondent – State of Haryana, assured the Bench that legal/demand notice of the petitioner shall be considered by the authorities and all possible steps to save the trees will be taken while undertaking the widening of Morni-Panchkula road.
In October 2021, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar had flagged off many adventure activities, including water sports and paragliding at Tikkar Tall, a tourist hub.
Morni Hills in Panchkula spreads over 52,000 acres of forest area, touching the boundaries of Himachal Pradesh.