The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has requested a report from the Odisha Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department concerning a plan to cut down over 2,000 mature trees for a new building at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Rourkela. Acting on a complaint by Alaya Samantaray, an RTI and Environmental Activist, the Ministry wrote to the Odisha authorities urging prompt action in line with regulations.
The complaint highlighted that the proposed site, a dense green cover, serves as an important ecological buffer zone and habitat for local flora and fauna. It suggested considering an alternative site within the campus to avoid extensive tree felling, as an ongoing construction project for the Civil Engineering Department reportedly involves minimal tree disturbance.
Emphasizing the need for detailed examination and compliance with rules, the Ministry urged the department to take necessary actions. It also requested an Action Taken Report to be submitted promptly for further review. Samantaray, in the complaint, emphasized the environmental significance of the NIT Rourkela campus, describing it as crucial for the city’s ecosystem and wildlife. He called for a reconsideration of the tree felling proposal and suggested utilizing the existing construction area to minimize environmental impact.
