Delhi’s Green Lungs High Court Calls for Forest, Not Parks

The Delhi High Court has underscored the necessity of establishing a forest in the national capital, rejecting the Delhi Development Authority’s (DDA) proposal to create an “ornamental park” instead.

The court, led by Justice Jasmeet Singh, has emphasised the pivotal role of green spaces in combatting pollution and advocated for the transformation of a designated plot spanning over 55 acres into a dense forest, serving as the city’s “lungs.” Justice Singh asserted, “It is for the lungs of Delhi. It is only to reduce pollution levels in Delhi … Delhi needs a forest. Delhi does not need an ornamental park. Delhi does not need a medicinal garden, clustered bamboo forest.” Despite the DDA’s reassurance that the proposed plan aims for an urban forest with three distinct zones, including a substantial area dedicated to dense flora and a buffer zone, the court has urged reconsideration for utilising the entire plot for dense forestation, deeming the proposed usage insufficient for the available space. Highlighting the distinction between a mere park with trees and a proper forest, Justice Singh emphasised the imperative of addressing Delhi’s pressing need for green cover. “This is not acceptable. I am of the view that the need of the people of Delhi is a forest and not an ornamental park,” remarked the judge.

The court has adjourned the proceedings to May 17, urging the DDA to explore alternative, larger parcels of land for forest development. “We don’t need a herbal forest. People of Delhi will give you blessings. Go find some land which is lying vacant,” directed the court. The court’s directive stems from earlier proceedings on April 1, during which it instructed the DDA to present a detailed afforestation plan. This order was issued amidst contempt proceedings against the DDA for unauthorised tree cutting in the Southern Ridge area. The DDA, in response, tendered an apology, citing a misunderstanding of a Delhi government notification, and pledged to rectify its approach towards environmental conservation.