The Delhi High Court criticizes MCD’s inaction on tree pruning in Dwarka, warning ‘We have lost a life’ and urging immediate steps to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.
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NEW DELHI: The Delhi High Court has issued a directive to the authorities in the capital, urging them to conduct immediate pruning of trees in the Dwarka area, highlighting the ongoing “inaction” on the part of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).
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A bench comprising Chief Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela stressed that timely tree pruning is essential to ensure the safety of pedestrians and road users.
“Authorities have not been discharging their duties. Tending of trees and light pruning is required to make lives of pedestrians, other users of road safe,”
the bench remarked.
The court pointed out that during heavy rains, frequent incidents of falling trees have been reported, resulting in damage to property and even loss of life.
“We direct the authorities to follow the directions. We have lost a life. What else can be eye-opening for the MCD?”
the bench questioned.
The directive came during the hearing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that claimed, despite a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) issued by the Delhi government, authorities were not taking adequate action.
The PIL noted that falling branches and dead parts of trees not only caused property damage and accidents but also hindered smooth movement on roads and footpaths.
The court reviewed the photographs submitted with the PIL and called for immediate attention to ensure safety.
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The bench highlighted the Department of Forest and Wildlife, GNCTD notification, which provides guidelines for tending and pruning trees beside roads, parks, and public areas.
The High Court directed:
- Authorities to conduct a survey of the Dwarka area in the South West District within 10 days to identify trees requiring pruning.
- Pruning of trees in Dwarka is to be completed within four weeks after the survey is done.
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