The members of the parliament raised concerns regarding the allotment of timber from State Reserved Forest Land along the roads and the issuance of forestry clearance near monasteries or Dzongs for developmental activities. The two disputed clauses in the Forest and Nature Conservation Bill of Bhutan 2021 were among the 30 disputed clauses of the bill deliberated in the joint sitting of the parliament today.
The Joint Committee presented their report to the parliament. The committee was instituted to review the disputed clauses of the bill between the two houses. With a total of 30 contentious clauses, two specific areas of concern grabbed the attention of the assembly members.
During the winter session last year, the National Assembly recommended to add a new section which would allow trimming or cutting of trees that endanger or obstructs commuters along the roads. However, the National Council recommended to do away with the section.
The section was once again a matter of contention in the joint sitting today.
“For now, the farm roads are being looked after by villagers and local government. And when they see a tree about to fall and posing a severe risk to the daily commuters along the farm road, they are not allowed to cut the trees,” said Yeshey Dem, Khamaed-Lunana MP.
“Commuters are facing a lot of challenges. Be it summer or winter, there are a lot of trees falling down along the roads and causing numerous problems to them,” said Tshering Chhoden, Khar-Yurung MP.
Likewise, a few members also expressed reservations about allowing the construction of other structures within 500 meters from the base of monasteries or Dzongs. They feared it could lead to unregulated construction near these sacred sites.
“As per the Joint Committee, they are saying that besides allowing the construction of roads, connection of water supply and power line, they will also allow other developmental activities. I think, mentioning other developmental activities is not required,” said Ugyen Wangdi, Dramedtse-Ngatshang MP.
“They have added other developmental activities along with the construction of roads, connection of water supply and power line. This particular thing has opened the windows to all activities,” said Dorji Wangdi, Opposition Leader.
Following a show of hands, the Joint Committee was asked to review these clauses and report back to the Parliament on Monday.
Additionally, various discussions were held regarding the remaining disputed clauses under forest management and protection, nature conservation, allotment of timber and non-wood forest products, trade and transport of forest produce, and offence and penalty.
The house will formally adopt the bill on Monday.
Passang Dorji and Singye Dema
Edited by Kipchu
