Tree Committee

The Tree Committee is an important committee functioning in the Gram Panchayats of Kerala Local Self Government Department for environmental protection and greening activities. The committee regulates matters related to planting, protecting, and, when necessary, cutting trees within the Panchayat area.

The committee is formed based on the directions of the Local Self Government Department and the Social Forestry Wing of the Forest Department.

1. Structure of the Tree Committee

The Tree Committee at the Panchayat level generally includes the following members:

  • Chairman: President of the Gram Panchayat
  • Convenor: An officer from the Social Forestry Wing of the Forest Department
    (such as a Section Forest Officer or Beat Forest Officer)
    or an officer nominated by the Panchayat Secretary.

Members

  • Chairpersons of the Development Standing Committee and/or Health & Education Standing Committee
  • Agricultural Officer
  • Environmental activists / public representatives nominated by the Panchayat

2. Major Responsibilities

Permission for Cutting Trees

Before cutting dangerous trees located in public places or roadside areas, the Tree Committee must conduct a site inspection. The Panchayat grants permission for cutting the tree based on the committee’s recommendation.

Tree Removal for Road Development

When trees need to be removed for the development of PWD or Panchayat roads, the committee decides how many trees should be replanted as compensation.

Compensatory Afforestation

The committee ensures the implementation of rules requiring the planting of ten or more saplings in place of each tree cut down for development purposes.

Tree Planting and Protection

In collaboration with the Forest Department, the committee prepares and implements plans for planting and protecting suitable tree saplings within the Panchayat area, especially during occasions such as Environment Day.

3. Important Information for the Public

  • If trees in private property pose danger to the public or travelers, the Panchayat may direct the owner to remove them based on the Tree Committee’s report.
  • Cutting trees in public places without permission is punishable by law. The Tree Committee has the authority to help prevent such violations.