Extent of the green cover
According to the ‘India State of Forest Report 2021’ (ISFR) published by the Forest Survey of India (FSI), Delhi has the largest forest cover among seven major megacities, with 195 sq. km, followed by Mumbai (110.77 sq. km) and Bengaluru (89.02 sq. km).
Delhi’s forest cover constitutes 13.15% of its geographical area, while its tree cover spans 147 sq. km (9.91%).
Despite extensive urban development, the city’s overall green cover (forest and tree cover) has increased from 151 sq. km (10.2%) in 2001 to 342 sq. km (23.6%) in 2021
Delhi Preservation of Trees Act
The Delhi Preservation of Trees Act (DPTA), 1994 provides legal protection to trees in the national capital against actions that could harm their growth or regeneration.
According to Section 2 (h) of the Act, “to fell a tree” includes severing the trunk from the roots, uprooting, bulldozing, cutting, girdling, lopping, pollarding, applying arboricides, burning, or any other damaging method.
Under Section 8, no tree or forest produce can be removed on any land without prior permission from the ‘Tree Officer’, even on privately owned property.
The ‘Tree Officer’ may grant permission after inspection and must respond within 60 days.
Any person violating this Act may face imprisonment for up to one year, a fine up to ₹1,000, or both.
Furthermore, the Act outlines a ‘Tree Authority’ tasked with conducting tree censuses, managing nurseries, and reviewing government and private construction proposals, among other responsibilities
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