In a significant move to bolster environmental conservation in the national capital, the Delhi High Court has ruled that any permission granted for the felling of 50 or more trees will now require supervision by the Central Empowered Committee (CEC), aligning with directives previously issued by the Supreme Court. This decision aims to address concerns over the indiscriminate cutting of trees and to ensure that such actions are thoroughly evaluated and justified.
The court's order modifies its earlier directives dated August 31, 2023; September 14, 2023; and August 9, 2024, which are now vacated to the extent that permissions for felling 50 or more trees will be subject to CEC oversight. Justice Jasmeet Singh clarified that permissions for felling up to 50 trees may continue under existing procedures until a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is finalized and implemented by the relevant authorities.
This ruling emerged from a contempt plea highlighting that officials were not adhering to judicial directions requiring Tree Officers to provide detailed reasons for permitting tree felling. The plea emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in decisions affecting the city's green cover.
The Supreme Court, in its December 2024 directive, had stipulated that any permission granted by Tree Officers for felling 50 or more trees under the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act, 1994, must receive approval from the CEC before implementation. The CEC is tasked with reviewing such applications comprehensively, considering all relevant aspects, and determining whether the permission should be granted, modified, or denied.
This collaborative approach between the judiciary and environmental oversight bodies underscores the importance of preserving Delhi's ecological balance. By instituting stringent review mechanisms, the court aims to prevent arbitrary tree felling and to promote sustainable development practices that respect the city's environmental heritage.
The case, titled "Bhavreen Kandhari v. Shri C. D. Singh and Others," reflects the judiciary's proactive stance in addressing environmental concerns and ensuring that urban development does not come at the expense of ecological degradation. The court's emphasis on detailed justification for tree felling permissions serves as a reminder of the critical role that trees play in maintaining air quality, biodiversity, and overall environmental health in urban settings.
As Delhi continues to grapple with challenges related to pollution and urban expansion, such judicial interventions are pivotal in steering the city towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future. The implementation of CEC oversight is expected to bring about a more rigorous and transparent process for evaluating tree felling proposals, ensuring that the city's green cover is preserved for generations to come.
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