NGT asks JNU to show proof of permission to cut trees

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)

“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.

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

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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.

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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)