CITY Hall has taken action against those responsible for felling 88 trees in the city since 2014.

DBKL Landscape and Recreation Department spokesman said although there were more cases of illegal tree- felling, they often did not have enough evidence to take action against the culprits.

“Most illegal tree-felling is done at night. We need to collect evidence including viewing closed- circuit television camera footage, if any. Usually, the culprits get away.

“Most of the trees were felled as they were obstructing development projects in the surrounding areas or blocking billboard advertisements,” he said

DBKL corporate communication director Khalid Zakaria said once a complaint was received, the Planning Department would be asked to investigate if the tree felling was approved, failing which a police report would be made.

“We will then prepare a paper to fine and claim compensation from the culprit which needs to be approved at the One-Stop Centre. If the party refuses to pay, we will bring them to court,” he said.

Khalid added DBKL has imposed a condition that all contractors put up a signboard while undertaking any landscaping work.

They should also have approval or a permission letter to do the works commissioned.

He said those found guilty of illegal felling would not only be fined RM5,000 per tree, but also asked to pay compensation depending on the size, condition and other criteria.

The latest case of tree felling happened last month when 16 trees along Jalan Cochrane were felled by the Armed Forces Fund Board (LTAT) for a road widening project without obtaining prior approval from DBKL. LTAT was fined RM300,000.

Malaysian Nature Society president Henry Goh said the illegal cutting down of trees showed either a total disregard of proper procedures or a poor understanding of them.

“Although what is done cannot be undone, it is hoped that appropriate action will be taken to ensure that this does not occur again,” he said

Goh said streets, parks, playgrounds and backyards should have trees not only because they are aesthetically pleasing but also because of environmental reasons.

Trees are a green oasis and provide cooling shade in urban settings.

“Many neighbourhoods are also home to very old trees that serve as natural and historic landmarks,” he said.

The public can call the all-day DBKL call centre at 1-800-88-3255 to report any tree felling.