New Delhi: The Supreme Court has raised alarm over rampant deforestation in flood-hit regions of northern India, directing states to respond on reports of illegal tree felling that may have aggravated the scale of destruction. Chief Justice of India (CJI) B.R. Gavai, heading the bench, observed that the situation unfolding in Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand is unprecedented, and early indications suggest human activity has played a role in worsening natural disasters.
Over the past weeks, northern India has endured relentless rainfall that triggered massive floods and landslides. Punjab is witnessing its worst deluge in nearly four decades, while Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh are grappling with collapsed roads, submerged towns, and the displacement of thousands of families. Against this backdrop, the apex court noted troubling visuals in media coverage large quantities of timber floating in floodwaters, pointing to widespread and unchecked tree cutting.
“We have seen unprecedented landslides and floods in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab. From the media reports, it is noticed that in the floods, a huge amount of wood was flowing along. Prima facie, it appears that there has been illegal felling of trees,” CJI Gavai remarked during proceedings.
The bench has issued notices to the Centre as well as the governments of Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh, seeking detailed affidavits within two weeks. The court emphasized that accountability is critical, given the scale of devastation and the fragile ecology of the Himalayan foothills.
Experts have long warned that illegal logging in hilly regions weakens natural barriers against landslides and floods. The removal of forest cover not only destabilizes slopes but also prevents soil from absorbing excess rainwater, accelerating runoff into rivers and increasing the risk of flash floods. The latest disaster, the court hinted, could be a consequence of ignoring these ecological red flags.
Environmental activists argue that this is not an isolated incident. In the past, illegal mining and unregulated construction have repeatedly been flagged as factors undermining the Himalayan ecosystem. “The court’s intervention is vital. For years, tree felling has gone unchecked in forest belts under the guise of development. Now nature is retaliating in ways that cost lives and livelihoods,” said one activist tracking deforestation in Himachal.
The governments of the affected states have been asked to provide data on forest clearances, timber seizures, and preventive measures against illegal felling. The Centre is also expected to clarify its oversight role in regulating logging activities, particularly in eco-sensitive zones.
As the floods continue to wreak havoc, the court’s strong words underline a deeper crisis India’s struggle to balance economic expansion with environmental sustainability. The upcoming hearings are expected to set the stage for stricter monitoring mechanisms and possibly tougher penalties for illegal deforestation.
For communities across northern India, already reeling from loss of homes and farmland, the court’s move signals a recognition that ecological degradation cannot be treated as collateral damage. Instead, it is a central factor in the country’s growing vulnerability to climate-driven disasters.