Forest Deptt expediting road clearance: Altaf

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 4: Minister for Forests, Mian Altaf Ahmed today informed the Legislative Assembly that on the basis of indent placed by the PMGSY authorities, the case for diversion of 4.39 hectares of forest land for construction of 7 kms road, out of which 5.654 kms falls in forest area from Sanzipora to Mankal, involving removal of 137 trees/ poles/ saplings was processed as per the Jammu and Kashmir Forest (Conservation) Act and sanction to this effect has been accorded.
Replying to a Calling Attention Notice by Er. Rashid, the Minister said that the markings were conducted and necessary verification done despite severe winter season and snow. The technical sanction required for removal of trees stands accorded by the Forest Department. The felling of the trees shall be done once the initial part of the road which transverse more than 500 meters through private land is constructed, so that the timber out of the felled trees is taken out safely through that initial stretch of the road. He said that Forest Department has facilitated in all possible manner to expedite the construction of the said road very soon.