Supreme Court Summons DDA Vice-Chairperson and CPWD DG Over Tree Felling in Delhi’s Ridge Area

In response to a contempt petition alleging unauthorized tree felling in Delhi’s Ridge area, the Supreme Court has summoned the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) vice-chairperson and the director general of the Central Public Works Department (CPWD). The bench, comprising Justices Abhay S Oka and Ujjal Bhuyan, directed both authorities to maintain status quo in the area and issued notices to them, along with the Director General of Forest and the Principal Chief Conservator of Forest.

The contempt plea contends that the Ridge area, being the last remaining forested space in the national capital, has witnessed significant tree felling by the DDA for the construction of an approach road between Chattarpur Road and SAARC University near Maidan Garhi.

During the hearing, the bench expressed its intent to ensure restoration measures if satisfied, including the replanting of trees and the restoration of the affected area. Emphasizing the seriousness of the matter, the court ordered the respondents to personally appear in court on the next hearing date and mandated a halt on further tree felling.

Earlier in March, the apex court had refused permission to DDA for the felling of 1,051 trees, citing the vagueness of their application. The court stressed DDA’s responsibility as a state instrumentality to prioritize environmental preservation by minimizing tree felling to essential needs.

In a separate development, another bench of the Supreme Court reacted strongly to a report by the Central Empowered Committee (CEC), revealing encroachments on five percent of the Ridge area. The bench directed the Centre, the Delhi government, and the DDA to submit their responses to the alarming findings of the report.

Amid concerns over environmental degradation and encroachments on vital green spaces, the Supreme Court’s proactive stance underscores the critical importance of safeguarding Delhi’s natural heritage for the well-being of its residents and future generations.

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