New Delhi, Sept. 17 -- The Supreme Court on Thursday permitted the Delhi Forest Department to remove invasive tree species from the Central Ridge, subject to strict compliance with the approved Delhi Eco-Restoration Plan 2026-30. The Court said the exercise must be overseen by the Delhi Ridge Management Board.

A bench of Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana also stayed contempt proceedings initiated by the Delhi High Court over alleged violations of its directions restraining construction, clearing, excavation and tree removal in the Ridge.

The apex court accepted the Forest Department's contention that species such as Vilayati Keekar (Prosopis juliflora), Babool (Vachellia nilotica) and Eucalyptus...