India, Feb. 24 -- The western bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has extended the stay on tree felling in Nashik's Tapovan area until April 6. The order, uploaded on February 23, follows a recent hearing. The tribunal did not comment on the joint committee's report during the proceedings.

The case concerns large-scale tree cutting proposed for the development of Sadhugram in Tapovan, where temporary shelters are planned for sadhus arriving for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela between 2026 and 2027.

In November 2025, the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) invited public suggestions and objections regarding the proposed clearing of significant green cover. The move sparked protests from residents and environmental activists over ecologica...