Overview
- The Delhi government has implemented a new SOP mandating Central Empowered Committee (CEC) clearance for projects cutting or transplanting 50 or more trees.
- The SOP, gazetted on April 24, shifts final approval authority from tree officers to the CEC for large-scale tree-felling projects.
- Compensatory plantation must now be completed before any tree removal, with strict geo-tagged documentation and site inspections required.
- Tree officers must notify the CEC within 24 hours of any illicit felling of 50 or more trees, ensuring rapid accountability.
- This move aligns with Supreme Court and Delhi High Court directives to strengthen environmental oversight and prevent indiscriminate tree cutting.