Home / Environment / NGT Halts Nashik Tree Cutting for Sadhugram
NGT Halts Nashik Tree Cutting for Sadhugram
24 Feb
Summary
- NGT extended tree felling stay in Nashik's Tapovan until April 6.
- Project involves clearing trees for Sadhugram for the 2027 Simhastha Kumbh Mela.
- NMC plans to plant 15,000 compensatory trees, with 3,616 already planted.
The western bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has extended the tree felling stay in Nashik's Tapovan area until April 6, 2026. This order was issued following a recent hearing concerning the proposed development of Sadhugram, which requires clearing a significant green cover for temporary shelters. These facilities are intended for sadhus attending the Simhastha Kumbh Mela between 2026 and 2027.
The Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) had planned to clear over 1,200 trees, including Kashid and Babul species, to make way for construction. In response to concerns raised by residents and environmental activists, the NGT had previously issued a stay and formed a joint committee. This committee's report, submitted on February 20, 2026, identified 1,825 trees at the site, with 1,575 obstructing planned construction.
The committee's report detailed that the NMC proposed felling 1,229 trees, transplanting 17, pruning 289, and retaining 40. The NMC has also initiated compensatory plantation, aiming to plant 15,000 trees, with 3,616 saplings already planted and a satisfactory survival rate observed. The Tree Authority is expected to make the final decision, ensuring strict adherence to procedures.
