An environmental group has alleged the illegal felling of heritage trees—some over 200 years old—along the Siolim–Assagao road in Goa, despite a stay order issued by the High Court of Bombay at Goa.
The Goa Green Brigade claimed that two large heritage trees were cut in what it described as a “midnight operation,” with the timber reportedly transported using multiple trucks. The group has termed the act a blatant violation of the court’s directive and warned of approaching the High Court for further legal action.
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According to the NGO, a total of 131 trees had been marked for removal as part of a proposed road expansion project, out of which at least 31 have already been felled. The trees, noted for their massive girth, had earlier been inspected by officials who acknowledged their heritage significance.
The allegations have raised fresh concerns over environmental compliance and enforcement of court orders in infrastructure projects. Authorities are yet to respond in detail, while the matter is likely to see further legal scrutiny.
