CHANDIGARH: Punjab Finance Minister Advocate Harpal Singh Cheema on Wednesday announced that the Finance Department has approved the Forest and Wildlife Preservation Department’s proposal to draft ‘The Punjab Protection of Trees Act, 2025’. Describing it as a landmark step, Cheema said the upcoming legislation will reinforce Punjab’s commitment to environmental protection and urban greening.
In a statement issued here, the minister highlighted that the proposed Act includes stringent regulations and substantial penalties for the unauthorised cutting of trees. The new law, he said, aims to curb environmental degradation and ensure better conservation practices across the state.
Cheema added that the Finance Department examined the proposal thoroughly before granting approval. Importantly, the Forest Department confirmed that implementing the Act would not impose any additional financial burden on the state exchequer. “This legislation not only strengthens our resolve to preserve Punjab’s green cover but also ensures fiscal prudence,” he said.
The draft Bill is expected to serve as a comprehensive framework to protect existing trees and promote sustainable ecological planning in both urban and rural areas.
