Delhi High Court directs MCD to preserve over-a-century-old banyan tree in Nai Sarak

While hearing a plea about illegal construction in the area, the High Court observed that although the sanction plan in respect of the property in question was revoked, the issue of preservation of the tree remained.

Justice Jalan perused through a status report filed by the Tree Officer (Central), Department of Forest and Wildlife Delhi government which said digging of around five to six feet from the ground level would damage the root system of the tree.

The HC also noted the construction of a wall which might destabilise the root zone of the tree and large quantities of iron rods were also found unattended at the location.

Justice Jalan also observed that the platform around the tree had not been removed keeping in view the requirements of support to the tree.

The HC further directed the MCD and the tree officer to inspect the tree at least once in four weeks to ensure that the site is being maintained in a manner “conducive to the preservation of the tree”.