The Supreme Court has allowed CPWD to construct a water-storage facility and lay pipelines in Buddha Jayanti Park, part of the sensitive Delhi Ridge area. The decision comes despite concerns over possible tree felling and environmental impact raised during the hearing.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court has allowed the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) to go ahead with the construction of a water-storage facility and the laying of water pipelines inside Buddha Jayanti Park, which is situated in Delhi’s sensitive Ridge forest area.
This decision was taken despite concerns being raised about tree felling and environmental damage, as the court noted that necessary approvals had already been granted by the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) and that steps were being taken to safeguard the ecological balance of the region.
The order was passed on Friday by a bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant along with Justice Joymalya Bagchi.
The bench considered the submissions made on behalf of the authorities and permitted the CPWD to continue with the proposed infrastructure work.
The project aims to improve water storage and supply facilities in the area, which is considered important for public utility and urban planning.
During the hearing, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the government authorities, informed the court about the approvals and compliance measures undertaken for the project.
After hearing her submissions, the bench agreed that the construction could proceed, provided that environmental safeguards are strictly followed and monitored.
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However, environmental concerns were strongly raised by senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, who highlighted the risks associated with deforestation within the Ridge area.
He pointed out that past instances of unauthorized permissions for tree felling had already caused considerable damage, reinforcing the need for tight judicial supervision and strict adherence to forest protection laws.
The matter came up in connection with an ongoing petition seeking protection and preservation of the Delhi Ridge forest, which is often referred to as the “green lungs” of the capital.
The Ridge is a crucial ecological zone that helps in controlling pollution and maintaining biodiversity in Delhi, making any development activity in the area highly sensitive.
While permitting the project, the Supreme Court emphasised the importance of balancing development needs with environmental conservation.
The court made it clear that any construction work must be carried out responsibly and under continuous legal scrutiny, ensuring that no unnecessary damage is caused to the natural habitat.
This order reflects the judiciary’s attempt to strike a balance between infrastructure development and environmental protection, especially in ecologically fragile zones like the Delhi Ridge, where even limited construction can have long-term consequences.
The case continues to highlight the growing judicial focus on sustainable development and the protection of urban forest areas amid increasing pressure from rapid urbanisation.
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