Solar power expansion in Rajasthan sparks protests over Khejri tree felling

Widespread protests have erupted in western Rajasthan over the large-scale cutting of Khejri trees to make way for solar power projects, according to Down To Earth. Farmers and environmental activists allege that solar companies have been clearing ecologically vital trees without proper assessments.

The movement began in July 2024 in Nokha Daiya village, Bikaner district, and soon spread across Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Nagaur, Barmer, and other regions. Protesters claim that the state’s policy requiring a tenfold compensatory plantation is unworkable, as solar panels already occupy the cleared land.

Experts cited in the report say that over 500,000 trees have been removed in the Bikaner district over 14 years. The projects are also blamed for depleting scarce water sources and harming local wildlife, including the endangered Great Indian Bustard.