Another case of massive tree-felling reported from CHR

Another case of massive tree felling has been reported from the Cardamom Hill Reserve (CHR) area in Idukki.

The present case was reported from Uchilukuth, near Pethotty, in Santhanpara. Sources said trees were felled, pond constructed, and earth movers deployed to clear a 40-acre plot in the area.

Experts have warned that large-scale felling of trees may lead to the disappearance of cardamom farming in the area.

Forest department sources said permission had not been granted to fell trees on CHR lands.

Suni P.A., Ponmudi section forest officer, said the department had registered a case for illegal activities on the CHR land. “The landowner had leased 40 acres to an Adimaly resident for cardamom cultivation. The leaseholder cut the trees and undertook construction works. A count of the number of felled trees is on,” he said.

Botanist Jomy Augustine said trees on most of the cardamom plantations were being cut for cultivating the Njallani variety of cardamom, which required more sunlight.

“Though it may improve yield, it will be detrimental in the long run. Favourable climate is crucial for cardamom cultivation. Removal of trees will lead to rise in temperature in the area, affecting the yield ,“ said Mr. Augustine.

“Pethotty is the entrance to the Mathikettan Shola National Park and considered the most endemic area of the high ranges. Felling of trees will lead to the destruction of many rare plant species,” said Mr. Augustine.

Meanwhile, Congress district vice-president Arun K.S. alleged connivance of forest officials in the felling of trees. “The government should take immediate action to stop tree-felling in the CHR area,” he said.

Environmentalist M.N. Jayachandran said some forest officials claimed the felled trees were of low quality. “The statement is unethical, and there are no low-quality trees in the CHR area. All trees are the same for the Forest department,” he said.

Last week, the Forest department had registered a case after large-scale tree felling was reported from a CHR area at Pethotty in Santhanpara. Around 440 trees were cut from plots on the pretext of replanting cardamom.