Illegal Tree Felling Blamed for Floods: Supreme Court Issues Notice to Centre and States

Supreme Court Takes Note of Illegal Tree Felling Amid North India Floods, Issues Notice to Centre and States.

As severe floods continue to devastate north India and the national capital, the Supreme Court on Thursday flagged illegal tree felling in the hills, noting apparent violations of environmental laws. Notices were sent to the Centre and four states: Punjab, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir.

A bench of Chief Justice BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran emphasized the need to balance development with environmental protection. “We have seen unprecedented rains and flooding. Prima facie, it appears illegal tree felling has occurred, which is a very serious issue,” said Chief Justice Gavai, noting that entire fields and villages in Punjab appear wiped out.

Referring to media reports of wooden logs floating in Himachal rivers, the court directed Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to seek instructions from the governments and respond within three weeks. Mehta remarked, “Unfortunately, we have played with nature too much… now it is hitting back.”

Monsoon Devastation Across North India

Himachal Pradesh: Historic rainfall in August caused floods, landslides, and land subsidence, claiming over 340 lives, with many missing. Uttarakhand: Torrential rains led to flash floods and landslides; rivers including the Ganga, Alaknanda, and Mandakini remain at danger levels. 80+ deaths reported.

Jammu & Kashmir: Cloudbursts triggered flash floods and landslides in Ramban and Reasi, stranding thousands and repeatedly halting the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage. Punjab: Worst floods in nearly 40 years submerged 1,400+ villages, affecting 3.5 lakh residents and 3.7 lakh acres of farmland.

Delhi: Heavy rains and Yamuna overflow caused urban flooding, displacing thousands and disrupting infrastructure. The Supreme Court’s notice highlights the link between environmental degradation and disaster risk, emphasizing the urgent need to enforce laws against illegal deforestation.