Activists and the public have raised complaints over unauthorised felling of trees worth several lakh rupees on the premises of Devakottai Government Hospital

An average of more than 500 people visit the Government Hospital daily as outpatients. On the hospital premises, there were many grown trees, including varieties of Neem, Vaagai, Jackfruit, and Ashoka.

In addition to providing shade to the visiting public, during sunny days, the trees helped in reducing the impact of the heat due to the scorching summer.

On Friday, trees worth several lakhs of rupees located there were suddenly cut down without permission.

Subsequently, attempts were made to clear and take them away. Upon learning about this, activist Suresh lodged a complaint with the district administration.

The Revenue Department officials led by Tahsildar Thangamani, who arrived at the spot, stopped the pieces of wood from being sold. Following this, they conducted an investigation regarding the unauthorised felling.

Further, the investigation revealed that trees worth several lakhs of rupees that were previously there had also been cut and sold.

Regarding this, Mr. Suresh said: “Three months ago, some trees were cut and sold. Even though a complaint was made at that time, no action was taken. In this situation, a few days ago, they started cutting trees again. I informed the Revenue Department officials right then. However, they ignored it. After complaining to the higher officials, they have stopped the cut pieces of wood from being sold.”

“An investigation must be conducted, and action taken regarding the cutting of ancient trees that were beneficial to the patients”, he added.

When asked about this, the Revenue Department officials said, “To cut trees on the premises of a government office, permission must be obtained from the Collector. When the hospital administration was questioned, they said that they had cut them unknowingly. Following this, we are taking steps to officially auction the cut pieces of wood.”