The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Punjab Forest Department to take action against officials of the Punjab Water Resources Department for violating forest laws. The officials are accused of leasing out protected forest land for liquor vends along the Sirhind and Bist Doab canals.
NGT Bench Hears Petition on Illegal Leasing of Forest Land
The Principal Bench of the NGT, led by Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and Expert Member Dr Afroz Ahmad, was hearing an application filed by the Public Action Committee (PAC). The PAC alleged that Punjab authorities unlawfully leased out protected forest land to seven wine shops and taverns. This, the petition claimed, violated the Indian Forest Act, 1927, the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, and the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Leases Cancelled for Liquor Vends on Forest Land
The tribunal took note of the cancellation of leases for several liquor vends that were operating on forest land. Following this, the NGT directed the Punjab Forest Department to take appropriate action against the officials responsible.
Our Take: A Necessary Step for Forest Protection
In our view, the NGT's order is a firm reminder that forest land cannot be treated as ordinary real estate. Leasing protected land for liquor shops undermines conservation laws meant to safeguard green cover and wildlife. By ordering action against the officials involved, the tribunal has sent a clear message that violations of forest laws will not be overlooked. This case highlights the need for stricter oversight of land use along canals and other water bodies in Punjab.