The Delhi High Court on Monday expressed dissatisfaction with the Forest Department’s progress in enhancing Delhi’s green cover, despite its earlier directives.
Justice Oka observed that little had been achieved since the court’s June 2024 order directing the Delhi Forest Department and Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to implement recommendations from an expert committee to restore greenery in the National Capital Territory.
In June, the court highlighted the connection between the region’s extreme heatwaves and the loss of green cover, instructing the Forest Department to devise comprehensive strategies for increasing green spaces.
However, during the proceedings, it was revealed that while meetings had been held and an affidavit filed with suggestions, no substantive action or meaningful measures had been taken. Justice Oka remarked that convening meetings alone was insufficient and that the authorities had failed to deliver results.
The court reiterated its plan to appoint an external agency to propose effective solutions for enhancing Delhi’s green cover. It directed amici curiae to recommend suitable agencies, with suggestions to be presented at the next hearing on December 18, 2024.
During the session, Senior Advocate S. Guru Krishnakumar, one of the amici curiae, raised concerns about the growing number of vehicles per household in Delhi, which he argued exacerbated pollution and congestion.
He proposed amending the Motor Vehicles Act to impose additional taxes on households owning more than two cars, with the revenue directed toward improving public transport infrastructure. “In Delhi, every household has multiple cars, with even children using separate vehicles,” he said, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to address congestion.
Krishnakumar also advocated for the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in all public sector transport as part of a broader initiative to reduce emissions.
In a lighter moment, Justice Oka commented on the high cost of housing in Delhi and Mumbai, remarking that only those who could afford multiple cars seemed able to purchase homes in these cities.
The hearing underscored the court’s commitment to addressing Delhi’s environmental and infrastructural challenges, from green cover restoration to sustainable urban planning.
The bench’s decision to consider external expertise reflects its intent to expedite meaningful action on these pressing issues.
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