Nashik Sadhugram: National Green Tribunal Extends Ban On Tree Felling In Tapovan Until April 6
Nashik Sadhugram: National Green Tribunal Extends Ban On Tree Felling In Tapovan Until April 6
Nashik, February 24, 2026: The western bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has prolonged its interim order halting tree cutting in Tapovan, Nashik, until April 6. The direction was uploaded on February 23 following a recent hearing. The tribunal did not make observations on the findings of a joint inspection committee during the proceedings.
The dispute relates to a proposal by the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) to clear a large number of trees for the development of Sadhugram in Tapovan. The site is being prepared to accommodate seers and pilgrims expected for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela scheduled between 2026 and 2027.
Objections Over Environmental Impact
In November 2025, the civic body had invited public feedback on the proposed removal of substantial green cover in the area. The plan triggered opposition from local residents and environmental groups, who raised concerns about ecological damage and adherence to statutory norms.
Subsequently, in December, advocate Shriram Pingle moved the NGT, alleging violations of mandatory environmental procedures. The tribunal then imposed a stay on the proposed felling and formed a joint committee to inspect the site and submit recommendations.
Committee Findings and Procedural Directions
Although the committee’s report was submitted on February 20, it was not initially circulated to all stakeholders, limiting their ability to respond. The NGT noted that formal notices had not yet been issued to certain respondents, including the State Urban Development Department, the Chief Conservator of Forests, the Forest Department and the Maharashtra State Tree Authority. The bench has now directed that the report be shared with all parties and granted four weeks for replies.
According to the committee, the NMC identified 1,825 trees within the proposed development zone. Of these, around 1,575 are said to obstruct the project layout. The corporation has proposed cutting 1,229 trees, transplanting 17, pruning 289 and retaining 40. Species marked for removal primarily include Kashid, Babul and Nilgiri.
The report further states that compensatory plantation has been initiated under the Maharashtra (Urban Areas) Protection and Preservation of Trees Act, 1975. The NMC plans to plant 15,000 trees measuring 12–15 feet in height, with 3,616 saplings already planted. Inspection visits to plantation sites in January and February reportedly found survival rates to be satisfactory.
The committee stressed that the Tree Authority must take a final decision strictly in accordance with due process and clarified that no tree felling can proceed without formal approval and compliance with prescribed conditions.
The interim stay remains in force. The matter will be taken up again after responses are filed, following which the tribunal will consider the report and submissions before issuing further directions.
