Kochi: The Animals and Nature Ethics Community (ANEC Trust), Ernakulam, has sought the immediate suspension of tree marking, felling, trenching and fencing works associated with the proposed hanging solar fence project in Pariyaram and Vellikulangara ranges of Chalakudy forest division. The NGO cited serious concerns over potential forest destruction, disruption of elephant movement routes, and the absence of a demonstrated cumulative ecological assessment.
It has called for an independent investigation, verification of statutory approvals, and immediate interim protection against further irreversible activities. The NGO submitted an urgent supplementary representation to the Central Empowered Committee (CEC), ministry of environment, forest and climate change, and senior Kerala forest department authorities on Sunday.
Tree-marking serial numbers have reportedly exceeded 6,000, while the total number of trees potentially affected has been estimated at approximately 20,000, according to the information received by ANEC Trust. Trees have reportedly been marked along an approximately 13km stretch between Vellikulangara, Karikkadavu and Vallarampadam, as well as forest stretches in the Pariyaram Range towards Kormala.
The representation also calls for an independent technical, financial and ecological audit of the earlier Thumburmuzhi–Pillappara hanging solar fence project, including the reported tree removal, changes in alignment, expenditure, operational effectiveness and actual impact on human–elephant conflict. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Kochi | Silver Rate in Kochi | Bank Holidays in Kochi | Public Holidays in Kochi Stay updated with the latest Kochi news. The NGO has further highlighted its pending application before CEC and requested that the forest department furnish complete project records and comply with the applicable directions. It has sought an independent multidisciplinary assessment involving wildlife ecologists, elephant specialists, hydrologists, geotechnical experts and engineering specialists, along with an impartial vigilance inquiry wherever the records disclose prima facie irregularities. Download the TOI App.