Ecological Concerns Rise Over Assam's Tree Felling for Development

Over one lakh trees have been felled across Assam since 2016 for various development projects, prompting significant ecological concerns. Despite planting millions of saplings as compensation, experts assert that mature trees provide irreplaceable ecosystem services, and the lack of impact studies exacerbates environmental worries.

The state of Assam has witnessed the felling of more than one lakh mature trees since the formation of the BJP government in 2016, according to official data. Trees were primarily cut for infrastructure and oil exploration projects, raising substantial ecological concerns.

The state government reports planting over 3.5 crore saplings in recent years to offset the green cover loss. However, environmental experts argue that mature trees hold a significant ecological value that saplings cannot quickly replace.

Despite the massive tree felling, no comprehensive studies have been undertaken to assess the ecological impact, further fueling scientific concerns over the repercussions on local ecosystems and microclimates.

(With inputs from agencies.)