Show Seriousness In Removal Of Invasive Plant Species Else Forests Will Be Gone: Madras High Court Tells State

The state had informed the court that the files regarding removal of invasive species were under consideration and had been sent to the Finance department for concurrence.

To this, the court orally observed that the state had to show more seriousness in dealing with the issue.

"If seriousness is not shown, entire forest will be gone. Invasive species affect the growth of ingenious species. We have also indicated in earlier orders that for removal of lantena and other invasive species, MGNREGA funds could be used. Therefore we are of the view that there will not be any difficulty for removing lantena."

The court also observed that various companies have been identified who were willing to spend funds for removal of the species under their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Scheme. The Tamilnadu Newsprint & Paper Company had also come forward and agreed to take the invasive species after they were removed.

Thus, the court directed the state to pass necessary orders and adjourned the case to 11th October for filing report.

Also Read: Full Bench Of Madras High Court Directs State To Find Out Best Practices For Removal Of Seemai Karuvelam Trees

Case Title: M Saravanan v. Principal Secretary and others

Case No: WP(MD) No. 3633 of 2014