Panchayat Level Tree Committee

A Tree Committee has been constituted at the Panchayat level to protect trees standing on public roads and public places and to prevent accidents that may occur due to the uprooting or falling of trees and their branches.

Tree Committees have been constituted at the Panchayat level as per Local Self Government Department Circular No. 248/RC3/2016/LSGD dated 14.07.2017. At present, the Tree Committee functions at the local level to avoid delays in obtaining permission from the District-level Tree Committee for the removal of trees and to enable timely decision-making in emergency situations.

Composition of the Committee

  • Panchayat President – Chairperson
  • Panchayat Secretary – Convener
  • Village Officer – Member
  • Forest Department Range Officer / Representative – Member

Major Responsibilities

  • Examine whether trees and branches in public places pose any risk or danger.

  • Take necessary action in cases involving trees that pose a threat to the life and property of the general public.

  • Direct the owners of privately owned trees that are in a dangerous condition to remove such trees.

  • In case of non-compliance with the directions, initiate appropriate legal proceedings and recover the expenses incurred from the concerned person.

  • Ensure that the valuation of trees proposed to be cut and removed is carried out through the Forest Department.

  • Coordinate tree protection activities within the jurisdiction of the Panchayat and ensure a safe environment.

The Panchayat-level Tree Committee functions with the objective of ensuring public safety and environmental protection simultaneously.