Delhi High Court Halts Unauthorized Tree Cutting and Waste Dumping in Ridge Area; Calls for Urgent Action to Preserve Green Heritage

The Delhi High Court has issued a directive to the Delhi Forest Department, mandating that no tree cutting or bush removal activities occur in the Ridge area of the capital without prior court approval. Furthermore, the court has emphasized the prohibition of garbage or waste dumping in the same area. Justice Mini Pushkarna, while issuing these instructions, urged the concerned department officials to promptly address the issue of garbage and waste removal from the Ridge area. Expressing concern over the apparent arson evident in photographs of the Ridge area, Justice Pushkarna lamented the destruction of not only trees but also bushes, leaving behind only barren land.

The pictures also revealed extensive garbage dumping, indicating a grave situation. Justice Pushkarna underscored the significance of preserving the Ridge area, considering it as both a green heritage and a vital component for maintaining environmental equilibrium in Delhi, especially amidst the city’s struggle with escalating pollution levels. Criticizing the Forest Department for permitting tree cutting and garbage dumping in the area, the Justice demanded an explanation for these actions. The next hearing has been adjourned to May 24, with the Deputy Forest Conservator (West Division) mandated to attend.

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These directives were issued during the hearing of a contempt case involving Anjali College of Pharmacy and Science, wherein the Forest Department had previously assured the court, in August 2023, of deploying staff to monitor the Ridge area to prevent dumping and further tree cutting. However, the Amicus Curiae’s report revealed ongoing large-scale deforestation and clearance of vegetation despite these assurances.