CHENNAI: The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has stepped up enforcement against unauthorised cutting and pruning of trees in public places, collecting fines totalling Rs 1.75 lakh from six individuals on January 22.
Of the total amount, one person was fined Rs 1 lakh for completely cutting down a tree, while five others were fined Rs 15,000 each for unauthorised pruning and branch cutting.
While the civic body is expanding green cover through urban Miyawaki forests and large-scale sapling plantation drives, officials said protecting existing mature trees was equally important.
It is worth noting that, as of January 12, residents and government departments are no longer required to apply through the Forest Department, a move aimed at reducing delays in tree-related services.
The city corporation has transitioned all such services to a digital platform.
Applications for branch pruning, transplantation or removal of dried trees must now be submitted through the GCC official website under the Green Committee Application portal or via the Namma Chennai app.
The city Corporation has also issued a warning that nailing advertisements, fixing lights or wrapping cables around trees will not be tolerated.
Citizens have been urged to report illegal tree cutting by calling the GCC helpline number 1913, the release said.