The Supreme Court on Monday directed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to provide clarification on whether instructions to cut approximately 1,100 trees in Delhi’s ridge forest area, allegedly in violation of court orders, were issued by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Saxena in his capacity as DDA Chairperson [Bindu Kapurea v. Subhasish Panda].
The Court’s inquiry comes amidst allegations that directives for tree felling were issued despite existing judicial mandates aimed at preserving Delhi’s green spaces. This development has sparked widespread concern among environmentalists and local residents, emphasizing the importance of upholding environmental protections in urban planning and development.
The case highlights ongoing debates over the balance between urban infrastructure development and environmental conservation, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas like Delhi’s ridge forest. Environmental advocates argue for stricter adherence to conservation laws to mitigate the impact of urbanization on biodiversity and ecosystem stability.
The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores the need for clarity and accountability in governmental decisions affecting environmental resources, reinforcing the role of judicial oversight in safeguarding public interests and ecological sustainability.
