Supreme Court accepted CEO’s recommendation in tree cutting case, what is the matter?

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has accepted the recommendations of the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) which includes creating a customized module. Under this, a special module will be created to increase the green area in Delhi. This module will have to give details of the projects for which trees need to be cut, as well as the number of trees to be transplanted and replanting of trees to complete the green area. Details of all these will have to be given.

A petition has been filed in the Supreme Court requesting to develop a mechanism to increase the green belt in the capital Delhi. During the hearing, the CEC presented a report in the Supreme Court which was accepted by the Supreme Court. The ridge in the capital Delhi is an extension of the Aravali range in Delhi. It is in four zones. The total area in these four zones is 7784 hectares. The bench headed by Justice AS Oka said that after looking at the report, we accept it. We direct that action be taken on the recommendations of the CEC.

What did the CEC recommend?

The CEC has also said in its report that it is recommended that all the project proposals should follow the conditions imposed by the court when permission is granted to cut trees and a period of six months should be given for this, till then new proposals should be kept pending. If the project proponent does not comply with the conditions even after the allotted time, then punitive action can be taken against him/her. The Supreme Court accepted the recommendations of the CEC and has allowed to send notices to all the applicants and project bringers. Those who have already been given permission to cut trees have been asked to upload the compliance related data within three months. If this is not done then contempt proceedings will be initiated against them.