NGT asks JNU to show proof of permission to cut trees | Latest News Delhi - Hindustan Times
close_game
close_game

NGT asks JNU to show proof of permission to cut trees

Hindustan Times | ByHT Correspondent, New Delhi
Mar 16, 2017 11:18 AM IST

An NGO, CHETNA, claims that the university, national intelligence grid and the CRPF had illegally constructed buildings in the reserve forest area without the necessary environmental clearances

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has asked Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) to submit proof that they had obtained the necessary permissions before cutting trees.

A view of the JNU campus.(Ravi Choudhary/HT Photo)
A view of the JNU campus.(Ravi Choudhary/HT Photo)

“JNU shall show complete compliance,” said the bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar, while directing them to file their responses within two weeks.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

The bench had earlier issued notices to environment ministry, JNU, Delhi Development Authority, Delhi government and others in the matter.

Read: JNU research scholar allegedly commits suicide, cops hint at ‘personal issues’

The order comes in the wake of a plea filed by an NGO called CHETNA, society for protection of culture, heritage, environment, traditions and promotion of national awareness, who claim that the university, national intelligence grid and the CRPF had illegally constructed buildings in the reserve forest area, and had failed to acquire the necessary environmental clearances.

However, the plea is focused on the constructions in JNU, which they claim are illegal as the campus is within the reserve forest areas of south central ridge, and constructions are illegal here.

They have said they will file separate cases against the others for violations.

They have termed seven buildings in the JNU campus, including 24 type-III flats for staff at Paschimabad, sewage treatment plant in Saraswatipuram, new hostel building near Shipra hostel, Trans-Disciplinary academic building, Yamuna hostel warden flats and dining hall, to be in violation of the norms and threats to the area’s ecology. CHETNA has alleged that these buildings have been erected on the eco-zones without proper permissions from Ridge Management Board.

Read: JNU ‘suicide’: Dalit scholar was Rohith Vemula’s friend at Hyderabad university

It has also alleged that debris was being dumped in the reserve forest areas of Ghitorni and Vasant Kunj, leaving a kilometre long and 15 feet deep debris deposit. This is a significant increase from the debris spread over 100 sq m area in 2013, claims the plea.

The bench has listed the matter for further hearing on April 26.

(With inputs from PTI)

Unveiling 'Elections 2024: The Big Picture', a fresh segment in HT's talk show 'The Interview with Kumkum Chadha', where leaders across the political spectrum discuss the upcoming general elections. Watch now!
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On