Today(on 24th April), The Supreme Court of India issues a contempt notice to the vice-chairman of Delhi Development Authority for illegally cutting down 1,000 trees to construct a road near Maidan Garhi, New Delhi.
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NEW DELHI: Today(on 24th April), The Supreme Court of India has issued a contempt notice to the vice-chairman of the Delhi Development Authority (DDA). This notice comes in light of the unauthorized felling of over 1,000 trees to make way for a new approach road linking Chattarpur Road and SAARC University near Maidan Garhi in New Delhi.
Justices B R Gavai and Sandeep Mehta, presiding over the case, observed that the DDA had proceeded with the tree felling despite a specific court order instructing them not to do so.
In response to this violation, the bench stated-
“Upon initial examination, it is evident that the Delhi Development Authority’s act of cutting down trees to build the road violates the court orders dated February 8 and March 4, 2024. We hereby summon the vice-chairman of the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to provide justification for why action should not be taken against them for contempt of court.”
The court has scheduled a hearing on May 8 to address the matter further.
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The court’s decision to issue a contempt notice comes after advocate K Parameshwar, acting as the amicus curiae, informed the court that the DDA had proceeded with the tree chopping despite an existing Supreme Court order prohibiting such actions. The apex court, on March 4, had denied permission to the DDA to fell 1,051 trees, citing the vagueness of their application.
Recognizing the DDA as an instrumentality of the State, the Supreme Court emphasized that it is the responsibility of the authority to prioritize environmental protection. The court emphasized that the DDA should make every effort to safeguard the environment and explore alternatives before considering tree felling. Additionally, the court noted that the proposed road passes through a forest and highlighted the absence of permission obtained under the Forest Act.
“We mandate the DDA to review the proposal with the assistance of experts in the relevant field. This review process is essential to guarantee that, during public construction projects, only the minimum required number of trees are removed.”
– the apex court had said.
The Supreme Court’s decision to issue a contempt notice showcases its commitment to upholding environmental protection and enforcing its orders. By holding the vice-chairman of the DDA accountable, the court sends a strong message that non-compliance with court orders will not be tolerated. This case serves as a reminder to all authorities and individuals involved in construction projects to prioritize environmental concerns and engage in responsible decision-making.
ALSO READ: Delhi HC: Contempt Notices Issued to DDA Forest Officials Over ‘Unauthorized Tree Felling’
Environmental activists and concerned citizens have hailed the Supreme Court’s intervention in this matter. It highlights the importance of preserving trees and forests, particularly in urban areas where green cover is often threatened by development projects. The court’s emphasis on exploring alternatives and employing experts reflects a balanced approach that seeks to balance development with environmental sustainability.
