Kerala Cancels Order Allowing Tamil Nadu To Fell Trees To Strengthen Dam

The ruling LDF faced criticism from Opposition Congress after Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin thanked Kerala government for allowing felling of the trees

The Kerala government today cancelled an order granting permission to Tamil Nadu for felling 15 trees downstream of Baby Dam at Mullaperiyar reservoir, with the state cabinet taking a decision to this effect.

The development comes in the wake of the ruling CPI(M)-LDF facing flak, mainly from Opposition Congress over the issue after Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin earlier thanked his Kerala counterpart Pinarayi Vijayan for his government allowing felling of the trees. As the move drew criticism in the state, the Kerala government later froze the order.

Since the November 5 order issued by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and the Chief Wildlife Warden was "not legally binding", it was decided by the Cabinet to cancel it, a statement issued by the government said today. An official who prepared the order could face action, sources said.

The Cabinet also decided to set up a three-tier committee to provide the state government with the necessary views and advice to take quick and accurate decisions on issues related to inter-state river water disputes, the statement added.