FAC allows KFDC to continue tree felling operations

MoEFCC approves KFDC to continue tree felling of exotic species, boosting eco-restoration efforts across Kerala's forests.

In a major boost to ongoing eco-restoration initiatives by the Forest department, the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) has authorised the Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC) to continue tree-felling operations across the state.

The FAC, which operates under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC), granted the extension to the KFDC—a state government enterprise. Officials noted that the KFDC lease covers 7,748.441 hectares across the Thiruvananthapuram, Punalur, Achencovil, Ranni, Munnar, and Thrissur forest divisions.

Although the lease expired on December 31, 2025, the state government recently renewed the license for an additional 25 years. To facilitate this renewal, the MoEFCC approved the continued removal of exotic species, such as eucalyptus, wattle, and acacia, from the leased lands.

A senior official said that, in line with the state’s eco-restoration policy, the corporation has initiated a programme to replace exotic species with native flora, targeting full conversion by 2040. “The central government’s permission will support projects aimed at removing exotic species and restoring the land to natural forests,” Mr Francis said. “Once these species are felled, the department will not replant them. Instead, we will allow natural forests to grow, which will ensure food availability for wildlife,” he said.

According to Francis, 50% of the 7,748 hectares is currently occupied by exotic species, while 30% consists of natural species.” Eco-restoration has already been completed in 10% of the total area. The ultimate goal is for the entire leased tract to consist of natural growth by 2050,” said the official.

Established in 1975 to manage Kerala’s forests, the KFDC is owned by the state government (90%) and the central government (10%). Within its leased areas, the corporation focuses on silvicultural activities, long-rotation crops, and eco-tourism initiatives.