In response to a writ petition filed by Supreme Court lawyer Md Tanvir Ahmed, the High Court has issued a rule requiring the government to justify within four weeks why it has not been directed to establish an environmentally friendly law, rule, regulation, or policy regarding tree cutting and planting. The rule also demands an explanation for the authorities’ inaction and negligence in this matter, potentially labeling such inaction as illegal.
Additionally, the court has asked for reasons why immediate measures have not been taken to mitigate heatwaves and reduce temperatures nationwide. This ruling comes after the lawyer sent a legal notice to the government on May 2, prompted by reports in Bangla daily Ittefaq and Prothom Alo regarding tree felling in Kushtia and the threat of heatwaves in Dhaka.
The notice, addressed to officials including the Secretary to the Environment Ministry and the chief conservator of forests, warned of legal action if necessary steps were not taken promptly to address the situation.