The Himachal Pradesh government has launched a new standard operating procedure for felling rotting dead trees in the state’s forests

Shimla, July 31: In a significant step towards forest management and economic development, the Himachal Pradesh government has introduced a new standard operating procedure (SOP) for felling of rotting dead trees in the state’s forests. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced the SOP on Tuesday, highlighting a streamlined process for managing these damaged trees.

Under the new guidelines, forest guards can now allow the felling of a maximum of two dead trees at their discretion, while forest division officers can approve the felling of a maximum of 25 trees. The change is aimed at making faster decisions in the management of forest resources and reducing bureaucratic delays.

The need for an updated SOP comes after guidelines were issued last year, which led to the successful processing of 15,000 damaged trees by the forest department and the corporation. The sale of wood from these trees led to a significant increase in the state’s revenue, with royalty income increasing from Rs 35 crore to Rs 70 crore within just a year and a half.

As part of a strategic shift, the state government has decided to close the construction wing of the forest department. The decision aims to focus the efforts of the forest department on core forestry activities, enhance management and conservation of forest resources. Additionally, forest department employees will be rewarded for exemplary work from forest beat to circle level under an incentive scheme designed to encourage improved performance and innovation in forest management.

Chief Minister Sukhu’s announcement underlines the government’s commitment to sustainable forest management and economic development. By efficiently addressing the problem of tree decay, the state aims to preserve its forests, prevent potential threats and generate revenue that supports the local economy.

These measures are expected to not only improve the health of Himachal Pradesh’s forests but will also contribute to the state’s economic sustainability, ensuring that natural resources are managed responsibly and sustainably for future generations.

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