Delhi Environment Minister writes to LG over tree cutting

Delhi Environment Minister Imran Hussain on Monday wrote to Lt. Governor Anil Baijal on the issue of cutting of trees in various parts of South Delhi saying that the ongoing projects are liable to be stopped given the violations.

In the letter he also said that the guidelines of the NGT have been flouted, "which is a serious matter".

He said that he "has observed compensatory tree plantation related deficiencies in respect of following colonies: Nauroji Nagar General Pool Residential Accommodation (GPRA) Colony, Netaji Nagar GPRA Colony and Kidwai Nagar GPRA Colony".

He also demanded a thorough enquiry/investigation into the matter.

"Departmental officers should have from time to time verified compliance of the conditions stipulated including the compliance of specific directions of the NGT.

"However, there appears prima facie laxity on the part of Department in ensuring compliance of the various conditions/stipulations mentioned in the various notifications," Hussain wrote.

Over 16,500 trees are planned to be chopped down for redevelopment work in South Delhi.

--IANS

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