Now Reading: NGT issues notices to Delhi govt, forest dept over ridge encroachment
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NGT issues notices to Delhi govt, forest dept over ridge encroachment
The National Green Tribunal has issued notices to the Delhi government and the forest department over two separate complaints of encroachment on notified forest land in the southern ridge. In one case,…
The Story in Brief
The National Green Tribunal has issued notices to the Delhi government and the forest department over two separate complaints of encroachment on notified forest land in the southern ridge. In one case, a local resident alleged that the SDM Saket directed the forest department to allow road access through forest land in Asola village for three farmhouse owners. The plea claims no forest land diversion was granted. In the second case, another resident complained of encroachment and construction on forest land at Bhati village, citing a special task force report. The NGT has ordered the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests to conduct a spot inspection and submit a report before the next hearing on October 15.
The Indian Opinion
The NGT's intervention is welcome, but the real test is whether the spot verification report due before October 15 will name the encroachers. The narrative that only wealthy farmhouse owners carve roads through forest land is too narrow. The second plea alleges encroachment by 'certain groups and individuals' in Bhati village, a reminder that the government itself must ensure its own departments do not grant access to notified forest land. Will the PCCF's report clearly distinguish between old habitations and new illegal constructions?
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
