Imphal, August 14 2010: The Alliance for Development Alternatives Manipur (ADAM) has expressed shocking surprise over the reported felling of trees near Kakching Lamkhai along NH 39 .

The same trees numbering more than a thousand were planted under the Social Forestry Scheme on the eastern side of NH 39 in the 1980s.The stretch is nearly about 3 Kms and the trees are all mature and more than 30 years old, said a press release issued by ADAM.

It was observed that truck loads of wood obtained from the felled trees were taken to Kakching and unloaded at Kakching Khullen Khamlangba ground.

Taking strong exception to indiscriminate felling of trees, it questioned the purpose of planting trees in elaborate functions led by the Chief Minister, Ministers and other dignitaries and organisations during Van Mahotsav observance should the trees be cut down as they are maturing.

ADAM went on to question if there is any compelling reason to cut down the trees and who is responsible for it.

"Are there no means and other alternative ways to save the trees ?", it asked while at the same time enquiring whether or not due official clearance was given to cut down the trees.

Still 75 pc of the trees can be saved if concerned authorities and alert citizens intervene without any further delay, added the release.

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