New Delhi, April 20 -- In a major push to strengthen environmental protection, the Delhi Government has notified a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) under Section 33 of the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act, 1994 to curb offences related to trees. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta termed the move a decisive step towards safeguarding the capital's green cover and ensuring strict enforcement of laws.
Calling it a priority initiative, the Chief Minister said, "Protection of Delhi's green cover is our government's top priority." She added that the SOP establishes a transparent and time-bound mechanism for the prevention, detection, and prosecution of illegal felling and damage to trees, ensuring accountability in every case.
The SOP introduces a robust rapid response system, enabling citizens to lodge complaints through a toll-free helpline, online portal, and offline channels. All complaints will be transmitted in real time to field officers, ensuring prompt action. Quick Response Teams at headquarters and divisional levels will reach sites within a stipulated time to prevent further damage and gather evidence through geo-tagged photographs and videos.
Strengthening enforcement, officials including Beat Officers and Tree Officers have been empowered to issue prohibitory orders, seize equipment used in offences, and coordinate with law enforcement agencies. To ensure round-the-clock monitoring, dedicated control rooms have been established at headquarters and divisional levels, functioning 24x7.
Highlighting citizen participation, the Chief Minister announced the reactivation of the Green Helpline and portal to facilitate easy complaint registration and tracking. Emphasising strict action, she said, "Violation of tree protection laws will not be tolerated under any circumstances."
Reaffirming the government's commitment, she noted that the initiative aligns with the vision of sustainable development and urged citizens to actively report violations to protect Delhi's green assets.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.