Supreme Court Criticizes Delhi Forest Department Over Green Cover Inaction
Last Updated on December 9, 2024 by Athi Venkatesh
The Supreme Court criticized the Delhi Forest Department for failing to implement measures to enhance green cover in the national capital. A Division Bench comprising Justices Abhay S Oka and Augustine George Masih proposed appointing an external agency to address the issue.
In June, the Court directed the Principal Secretary of the Forest Department to convene a meeting with a three-member committee to develop a plan for improving Delhi’s green cover. However, during Monday’s hearing, the Court noted that no report had been submitted despite repeated instructions.
The Court expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of progress. Justice Oka remarked, “No satisfactory measures were taken.” The Bench sought recommendations for an external agency to propose solutions and asked the amicus curiae to suggest names by the next hearing on December 18.
The contempt petition that initiated the case accused the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) of cutting hundreds of trees without the Court’s approval, allegedly on instructions from Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena.
When questioned, the Principal Secretary admitted that the committee met only recently, delaying the report. Justice Oka criticized the “careless approach” and stated, “Chief Secretary appears unwilling to take further steps beyond October.Senior Advocate ADN Rao, amicus curiae, suggested assigning the task to the Forest Survey of India (FSI). The Court granted time for further deliberation.
Additionally, the Court expressed concerns about Delhi’s environmental challenges, including the proliferation of vehicles. Senior Advocate Guru Krishnakumar highlighted that many Delhi households own multiple cars. Justice Oka noted the need for policy changes, including higher taxes or amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act.
The Court also emphasized promoting electric vehicles (EVs). Justice Oka recommended transitioning all government and public sector vehicles to EVs, urging immediate action to tackle the capital’s environmental issues.
