The Supreme Court directed Delhi’s Forest Department to file a detailed report on the 185 acres meant for compensatory afforestation. Justice Surya Kant said afforestation across 18 sites would be more “environmentally and equitably” balanced than a single location.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday heard the Delhi Ridge tree felling contempt case. The Bench comprising Justices Surya Kant, Ujjal Bhuyan, and Joymalya Bagchi directed the Delhi government’s Forest Department to submit a detailed report on whether the 185 acres of land earmarked for compensatory afforestation are suitable for plantation.
During the hearing, Justice Surya Kant observed that instead of developing one large afforestation site, it would be more environmentally balanced and fair to divide the effort across multiple areas.
He said,
“Authorities may undertake compensatory afforestation across 18 pockets in Delhi instead of a single site — environmentally and equitably, it’s better.”
The Bench also emphasized that the first and most crucial step is to secure possession of the 185 acres of land.
Justice Kant added that since winter is not the right time for plantation, the work could begin by March next year.
He further stated,
“The first step is securing possession of the 185 acres. Since winter isn’t suitable for planting, work can begin by March. If extra funds are needed, DDA must provide them.”
The Bench also directed the authorities to submit a conceptual plan for the proposed 18 locations before the next hearing. Justice Surya Kant said,
“By the next hearing, submit a conceptual plan showing the 18 locations — the second phase will look at further steps.”
According to the order, affidavits have already been filed in compliance with earlier directions. The Expert Committee informed the Court that more land may be needed for proper afforestation.
However, both the Forest Department and the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) confirmed that 18 sites measuring a total of 168.88 acres have already been allocated for this purpose.
Out of these, 17 sites have been handed over, and the 18th will be given unconditionally, despite certain ownership-related concerns.
The Bench noted that the Forest Department, under the supervision of the Expert Committee, will start plantation work depending on weather conditions. The Court has now extended the deadline for this task until March 31.
The order also recorded that the DDA has released funds to the Forest Department and will provide any additional amount required to complete the work.
The Court was informed that the construction of boundary walls around the identified land parcels has already started, and a portion of the work has been allotted.
The Supreme Court’s directions aim to ensure that compensatory afforestation in the capital is carried out in an environmentally sustainable, transparent, and timely manner.
Case Title:
Bindu Kapurea v. Subhasish Panda and Ors.
(MA 1652/2025)
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