Failure to de-concretise trees: HC cracks whip

New Delhi: Delhi High Court has cracked the whip on govt agencies for their failure to de-concretise trees as per its earlier orders.
In a recent order, Justice Jasmeet Singh issued contempt of court notices to commissioner of MCD and principal secretary of PWD, Delhi govt, after it came across instances of trees not being given breathing space.
HC lashed out at MCD and Delhi's forest department after it came across the case of a peepal tree, believed to be at least 60 years old.It was informed that "rampant concretisation" caused weakening of the tree's roots, and it was threatening an adjoining house due to a tilt. Instead of de-concretising the tree, MCD sought permission for heavy pruning, which was carried out, leaving just a log of wood instead of an old tree.
"Despite the order having been passed more than two-and-a-half years ago, no steps are visible on the ground showing de-concretisation of trees and compliance with orders of this court," HC observed, while taking note that no inspection was done by the department of forest.
HC recounted that on a complaint by a resident that the tree was causing problems with entry and exit at the property, MCD wrote to the deputy conservator of forests (DCF) and ordered heavy pruning.
"This is a classic example of one agency passing on its responsibility to another agency, showing total apathy towards the trees of Delhi and their rampant concretisation," Justice Singh noted. "Prima facie, I am satisfied that MCD as well as DCF, North, are guilty of contempt of the directions passed by this court and should be punished for contempt of court," said the order.
In a related development, HC also faulted PWD for its failure to ensure that all trees in district courts and HC are de-concretised within 48 hours.