Uttarakhand CM Halts Tree Felling for Highway Project Amid Protests Over Wildlife Corridor

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has ordered a halt to the felling of around 3,000 trees for the Rishikesh-Bhaniyawala four-lane highway project, following widespread protests from environmentalists and local residents. In a social media post on Saturday, Dhami stated that the exercise would remain suspended until a consensus is reached among all stakeholders.

The project, undertaken by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), aims to widen nearly 20 kilometres of road that passes through a sensitive elephant corridor within Rajaji National Park. Environmentalists and locals have been protesting for several days, particularly in the Saat Mod area, where tree-felling was being carried out under police protection.

Dhami emphasised that while development is necessary, it cannot come at the cost of public sentiment or environmental concerns. “For me, Uttarakhand's environment, public sentiment and the state's development are all equally important. Our government will move forward only after dialogue, consensus and the larger public interest,” he wrote.

The chief minister said he had taken serious note of the concerns expressed by citizens and experts. He instructed the principal secretary and other officials to initiate fresh, detailed discussions with all stakeholders, including residents, experts, and public representatives. “The felling of trees under this project will remain suspended until an atmosphere of trust and a satisfactory consensus among all parties is established,” Dhami added.

The project has received high court directives and all necessary statutory and environmental clearances, according to the chief minister. It also includes provisions for a nearly 3.5-kilometre underpass and special culverts to facilitate wildlife movement, which officials say will help reduce human-wildlife conflict and road accidents involving animals.

Dhami reiterated that further action would be taken in accordance with the high court's directives. The halt marks a significant victory for protesters who have been demanding the protection of the elephant corridor and forest ecosystem.