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The Supreme Court of India has issued a stern warning to the Delhi Lieutenant Governor, VK Saxena, regarding the unauthorized felling of nearly 1100 trees in the Ridge area of Delhi. The court's order, delivered in the form of a contempt case, is a strong condemnation of the actions taken by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the LG's role in the incident.
The controversy revolves around the DDA's decision to cut down trees for the purpose of widening a road leading to a hospital treating wounded personnel of central paramilitary forces. This decision was made despite a ban on tree felling in the Ridge area imposed by the Delhi High Court in August 2023. The Supreme Court expressed its displeasure over the DDA's repeated disregard for its previous orders, highlighting the need for stricter adherence to environmental regulations and the protection of ecologically sensitive areas.
The court has directed the LG to file an affidavit outlining the disciplinary and criminal actions taken against those responsible for the tree felling. The LG is also expected to explain the circumstances leading to the decision to cut down trees, including the level of his involvement and the process followed in obtaining permission. Furthermore, the court has emphasized the need for remedial measures to address the environmental damage caused by the tree felling, and the DDA is mandated to provide a detailed account of its actions in this regard.
Source: 'LG must act before ... ': SC's warning over felling of trees in Delhi's Ridge area