Extensive Tree Felling Uncovered in Idukki’s Cardamom Hill Reserve

Quick Summary

• Large-scale tree felling reported in Cardamom Hill Reserve (CHR) at Pethotty, Santhanpara, Idukki district.
• Around 440 trees were cut under the pretext of replanting cardamom, but Forest Department sources noted that no permission was granted for such activity.
• Congress district vice-president Arun K.S. alleged ongoing large-scale tree removal under the guise of shade cutting in cardamom plantations with alleged Forest Department support.
• The felled area is near Mathikettan Shola National Park adn witnessed a landslide around 1.5 years ago.
• Devikulam Range Officer Akhil Babu confirmed a case registered against the landowner – Tamil Nadu residents leasing out the property – and seizure of equipment used for illegal felling and transportation (two earthmovers and one multi-utility vehicle).

Indian Opinion Analysis
The issue highlights potential regulatory lapses concerning forest preservation laws in ecologically sensitive areas like Idukki’s Cardamom Hill Reserve near national parks, especially given recent environmental vulnerabilities like landslides nearby. Allegations of official complicity signal possible gaps in enforcement frameworks meant to protect these regions from exploitative practices under agricultural or commercial guises.

India’s commitment to lasting advancement requires reviewing mechanisms preventing misuse under agricultural exemptions while protecting fragile ecosystems like CHR that are critical for biodiversity, water resources management, and climate resilience.Read more