Beyond Fines: Coimbatore Corporation Moves Police After 35-Year-Old Tree Axed in Kurichi

Coimbatore: The Coimbatore Corporation has approached the police over the unauthorised felling of a 35-year-old Pungai tree in Kurichi, after Revenue Department action and a ₹50,000 fine were deemed insufficient deterrents, with a case now registered at Sundarapuram Police Station and investigation underway. The roadside Pungai tree, which had provided shade to residents for decades, was allegedly felled in its entirety without prior permission. It stood in front of a house along a road belonging to the Coimbatore Corporation in Kurichi Housing Unit Phase-II. The tree was allegedly cut down by Subramani, a resident of the locality, and was reportedly felled completely, including its root section. Following reports of the incident, members of the Green Care organisation brought the matter to the attention of Coimbatore District Collector Pawan Kumar Giriyappanar. Acting on the Collector's directions, Revenue Department officials inspected the site and initiated action. Subramani was subsequently fined ₹50,000 for allegedly felling the mature tree without permission, and an additional ₹10,000 was collected towards the Kodinilai fund, according to officials. Since the tree stood on a road belonging to the Coimbatore Corporation, the South Zone Assistant Commissioner directed further action. Assistant Engineer Sabari Raj subsequently lodged an official complaint with the Sundarapuram Police Station on behalf of the Corporation. Based on the complaint, the Sundarapuram police registered a case against the person concerned under the relevant provisions of law and have initiated an investigation. Speaking about the incident, Syed, Founder of NGO Green Care, said monetary penalties alone may not serve as an adequate deterrent against unauthorised tree felling. He noted that regulations generally require replacement saplings to be planted when trees are felled and provide for penalties for cutting trees without permission. He called for stronger legal action, including imprisonment wherever applicable, against those who fell trees without obtaining the required permission. He also welcomed the Corporation's decision to approach the police, describing it as an important step towards discouraging unauthorised tree felling. The incident has also renewed calls from environmental groups for stronger protection of mature trees and stricter enforcement against unauthorised felling in urban areas.