In a situation that represented a conflict between environmental protection and strategic infrastructure in the border state, the Supreme Court on Thursday demanded that the Punjab government submit a land allocation plan for compensatory reforestation. This plan is necessary because tree felling is required for the construction of highways and public facilities in this state.
Given the inaction of the respondents, the court decided to take decisive measures. Consequently, the court banned the felling of any trees of any age or species in Punjab without obtaining permission from this Court before the next hearing date.