Meghalaya: DC Kurbah, Forest Department Urge Action on Weak Trees Before Monsoon

CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG: With the monsoon looming, East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner R.M. Kurbah has directed the Divisional Forest Officer (Territorial) to expedite a citywide rekie to identify and remove structurally weak trees that pose a threat to lives and property. “We wrote to the DFO (Territorial) in February to do a rekie of the entire city and identify weak trees,” said Kurbah, pointing to the recurring danger of falling trees during heavy rains. “We’ve asked for a report to be submitted as soon as possible and necessary action to be taken.” Citing old and vulnerable tree species as major hazards, she clarified that “rampant cutting of trees is not allowed” in view of a High Court directive. “It has to be approved by the concerned DFO,” she added. Ahead of World Environment Day, Kurbah urged the forest department to guide the public on planting only strong, site-appropriate species. “Whatever tree they plant should be a strong one, not a weak species. We’ve requested the DFO to educate the public,” she said. In a parallel directive, the DC asked locality heads to inspect drainage systems within their jurisdictions and ensure that pre-monsoon cleaning drives are undertaken immediately. “All localities should have a pre-monsoon cleaning of drains,” she emphasized, calling for coordinated, proactive measures to mitigate seasonal risks.

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