The Supreme Court has directed a comprehensive tree census in Delhi to assess the city’s green cover and ordered that no more than 50 trees may be felled without prior permission from the Central Empowered Committee (CEC). This decision highlights the Court’s commitment to preserving the environment amidst rapid urbanization.
Background:
The matter arose from concerns over the increasing loss of green cover in Delhi due to large-scale infrastructure and developmental projects. Environmentalists and activists have frequently raised alarms about the ecological damage caused by unregulated tree felling. A petition filed before the Supreme Court sought measures to curb the indiscriminate felling of trees, emphasizing the urgent need to safeguard the city’s environment.
Court’s Observations:
The bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud remarked:
- Urban development must not come at the cost of environmental degradation.
- The ecological balance of Delhi, already grappling with severe air pollution, requires stringent protection of its green cover.
- Accurate data on the number and condition of trees is essential for informed decision-making.
Key Arguments:
- Petitioners’ Stand:
- Highlighted the alarming rate of tree loss in Delhi, which exacerbates air pollution and heat islands.
- Argued that a tree census would help identify the areas most affected and facilitate better urban planning.
- Stressed the need for prior permissions and transparent processes to prevent arbitrary deforestation.
- Respondents’ Stand:
- The government and local authorities defended ongoing projects, claiming necessary approvals were obtained for tree felling.
- Argued that development projects often include compensatory afforestation plans, mitigating the environmental impact.
- Emphasized that such restrictions might delay essential public infrastructure work.
Legal and Policy Implications:
The Court’s directive has far-reaching implications for environmental governance:
- Tree Census: Conducting a census will provide crucial data for planning and monitoring green cover. It can also help in identifying endangered or rare species.
- Permission Requirement: The restriction on felling more than 50 trees ensures stricter oversight and accountability, potentially slowing down projects that neglect environmental considerations.
- Urban Development: Balancing environmental preservation with infrastructure growth will become a central focus for policymakers.
Broader Context:
Delhi’s environmental issues, including air pollution and diminishing green cover, have been longstanding concerns. The city’s green spaces not only enhance air quality but also provide critical habitats for biodiversity and mitigate the effects of urban heat. The Supreme Court’s intervention aligns with global trends emphasizing sustainable urbanization.
Conclusion:
The Supreme Court’s directive mandating a tree census and restricting tree felling marks a significant step toward prioritizing environmental preservation in urban planning. This decision underscores the need for sustainable development practices that balance ecological integrity with infrastructural growth. Moving forward, authorities must ensure compliance with the Court’s orders to protect Delhi’s fragile environment.