Tripura’s Green Cover Under Threat: Forest Minister Criticizes Highway Projects for Tree Felling

Tripura Deforestatio: Forest Minister expressed concerns over the operational shortcomings within the forest department.

Tripura Forest Minister Animesh Debbarma has raised fresh alarms over rising deforestation in the state, calling for urgent systemic reforms and stronger protection mechanisms to safeguard the region’s rich green cover. Debbarma warned that development should never come at the expense of nature.

Highlighting the importance of conservation, Debbarma said, “Protecting forests is essential for protecting human life. True development must revolve around conservation, not deforestation.”

Tripura, with nearly 62% of its land under forest cover, has seen growing threats from infrastructure projects, especially national highways. Debbarma questioned the rationale behind the surge in highway construction, much of which has led to widespread tree felling. “Indiscriminate construction doesn’t guarantee progress if it destroys our ecosystems,” he said.

The Minister expressed concerns over the operational shortcomings within the forest department. He criticized the tendency of officers to remain in Agartala during working days, urging them to return to forest postings and adopt older, more effective conservation models. “Officers must work in the field, camp in forests, and lead by example,” Debbarma said.

On the issue of illegal sand mining, Debbarma admitted the growing challenge posed by forest mafias and stressed the need for technological solutions. The government plans to set up an intelligence unit and deploy drone surveillance, with Tripura State Rifles assisting in forest enforcement. A proposal is also in place to equip forest personnel with advanced weapons like AK-56 rifles for their safety and effectiveness.

Debbarma also emphasized the need to evaluate the success rate of tree plantation drives, noting that over five lakh saplings had been planted, but their survival rate remains unknown. “Planting is not enough. We must ensure they thrive,” he said.

Calling for modern training and better status for forest staff, the Minister urged that they be treated on par with police personnel. “Today’s forest officers must be trained in surveillance, security, and technology — not just botany,” he said, while insisting that forest protection must rise above politics.

At a government event held at the Tripura State Forest Academy in Hatipara yesterday, 58 motorcycles were handed over to forest range officers to improve field mobility and strengthen anti-poaching and anti-logging operations.

Tripura’s forests are vital not only for biodiversity but also for sustaining rural livelihoods and cultural heritage. Debbarma’s call to action underscores the pressing need to preserve these invaluable natural assets for future generations.

Also Read: “All we need is a green signal; rest we will handle”: Pradyot Debbarma on Bangladesh Embankment at Tripura Border

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