A special bench at the Madras High Court has called for Supriya Sahu, the additional chief secretary of the Environment, Climate Change, and Forests department, to explain a delay in funding for maintaining forest areas that have been cleared of invasive species.
During a recent hearing, Justices N Sathish Kumar and D Bharatha Chakravarthy were informed that ₹81.78 crore had not yet been released for this vital work. The judges stressed that without proper maintenance, these invasive species, such as prosopis juliflora, would likely return, undermining the efforts to get rid of them.
The court emphasized the urgency of releasing these funds to ensure the original goals of the project are met. Regular maintenance is crucial for the successful eradication of these invasive plants.
Invasive species are a growing concern worldwide. According to a recent report by the Global Biodiversity Outlook, invasive species threaten native ecosystems and biodiversity, leading to significant ecological and economic costs. Addressing these issues requires not just immediate action but ongoing commitments to maintenance and monitoring.
The reactions from environmentalists and local communities have been mixed. Many are anxious about the delay, as maintaining the health of forests is essential for both the environment and local livelihoods.
This situation highlights a crucial issue faced by many regions: the challenge of effectively managing and funding environmental projects. Ensuring that necessary funds are released promptly can make a significant difference in combating ecological threats.
For more insights on the impact of invasive species, you can read the Global Biodiversity Outlook 5 report.
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Supriya Sahu,Madras High Court,forest maintenance
