Tamil Nadu Releases Kerala Order Citing Tree Felling Recommendation

As Kerala freezes the tree felling order in Mullaperiyar, the Tamil Nadu government released a copy of the directive which indicates that top Kerala authorities were in the loop in respect to the decision to allow Tamil Nadu to cut trees.

As Kerala froze its order allowing felling of trees in Mullaperiyar vicinity amid political ripples, the Tamil Nadu government today released a copy of the directive which said the permission was following an official's recommendation and was according to a pact between the two states.

It has also emerged that while Tamil Nadu sought nod for removal of 23 trees, permission was granted for clearing 15, which was also later frozen. The order indicates that top Kerala authorities were in the loop in respect to the decision to allow Tamil Nadu to cut trees.

The Tamil Nadu government released a copy of the "Proceedings of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden, Kerala," giving an order allowing Tamil Nadu to fell 15 trees.

The proceedings, dated November 5, 2021 refers to Tamil Nadu's plea to remove 23 trees downstream of Baby Dam and widen the base of existing Baby Dam to strengthen the structure at Mullaperiyar Dam site.