No permission to be granted for felling of trees to construct houses: Delhi HC

The HC also continued the operation of the August 31 order wherein the Delhi government’s counsel had said, as recorded in the order, that “till the next date of hearing, no permission for felling of trees for any individuals will be granted and any permission required for important projects will be intimated to the Court”.

“No permissions will be granted for felling of trees in respect of construction of houses,” the HC said, listing the matter on October 6.

The HC orally observed that in certain cases, some trees may have to be cut on an urgent basis such as those that are “dangerous” or coming in the way of “expansion” of the city. “That is understandable; it’s a larger need maybe. But not for individual needs,” Justice Singh said.
In its August 31 order, the HC had observed, “A perusal of the permissions granted by the respondent for felling of trees seems to suggest that there is total non-application of mind while granting permissions. Some of the permissions show that trees have been permitted to be cut for individuals requiring parking spaces for their vehicles.”

The HC had then directed authorities to bring the files pertaining to granting permissions (as per the application) of all trees that have been felled.

The HC had in November last year asked Delhi’s Principal Chief Conservator of Forests to ensure that the orders permitting tree felling under the Delhi Preservation Of Trees Act be uploaded within 48 hours of being passed.