Why lack of policy on tree cutting would not be declared illegal: HC

The High Court (HC) has issued a ruling today (May 6) seeking to know why the lack of environment-friendly policies for planting and cutting trees and the inaction and capriciousness of the authorities concerned in controlling temperature should not be declared illegal.

The rule also asked to know as to why the court would not instruct to formulate environment-friendly policies for planting and felling trees.

The HC bench of Justice Naima Haider and Justice Kazi Zinat Haque issued the ruling on Monday (May 6) after hearing a writ petition.

Advocate Tanvir Ahmed moved on behalf of the writ during the hearing.

The writ was filed with the HC on Sunday (May 5) seeking instructions to stop the cutting of trees across the country, including Dhaka, to protect the environment.

Human rights and environmental organisation Human Rights and Peace for Bangladesh (HRPB) filed the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) writ. The writ was filed by senior advocate Monjil Morshed on behalf of HRPB.

Different reports published in various newspapers were attached with the writ, stating that thousands of trees are being cut in various areas despite the recent rise in temperature and suffering of the people.