Saket Residents Decry Land Encroachment, Tree Felling

New Delhi: Residents of Saket have raised alarms over the rapid proliferation of illegal settlements on a parcel of land behind Press Enclave, which they claim is a deemed forest. According to the Press Association Co-operative Group Housing Society, around 500 makeshift jhuggis have sprung up in the area, leading to significant environmental degradation.

The residents allege that the occupants of these illegal clusters have been cutting trees for firewood and causing deliberate forest fires to expand their occupied territory. The association further claimed that these activities have resulted in substantial harm to the local flora and fauna. In addition to deforestation, the encroachers are reportedly burning plastic and rubber waste, exacerbating pollution and health hazards.

“Over recent years, this green belt, the lungs of Saket, has been encroached upon and grabbed by numerous individuals residing in over 500 makeshift jhuggis,” the association stated. “These individuals are relieving themselves in the open, including in and around the forest, particularly near the boundary wall of the Press Enclave colony. This not only creates a health hazard but is converting the green forest into a dump yard.”

The association lodged a formal complaint with the Saket police station on June 20. A deemed forest in Delhi refers to any area over 2.5 acres with more than 100 trees per acre, although it is not officially notified or reserved.

A senior forest official commented on the issue, saying, “We will inspect this area, and if any violation of tree norms is found, appropriate action will be taken. Following the inquiry, a notice will be issued to the land-owning agency.”

The environmental impact of the encroachments has been a primary concern for the residents. A member of the Press Association Co-operative Group Housing Society remarked, “The encroachers are endangering the environment. Their actions are not just illegal but are causing irreversible damage to the local ecosystem.”

The residents of Saket are urging authorities to take swift and decisive action to protect the deemed forest from further encroachment and degradation. They stress the importance of preserving this green belt, which plays a critical role in maintaining the ecological balance of the area and serves as a vital green lung for the densely populated neighbourhood.

As the situation develops, the community remains vigilant and committed to safeguarding their environment, hoping for timely intervention from the concerned authorities.