The Aryavarth Express
Agency (New Delhi): With temperatures in Delhi hitting a record high of 52.3 degrees Celsius, the Delhi High Court has issued a stark warning that the city could become a barren desert if deforestation continues unchecked. The Mungeshpur area recorded this unprecedented temperature on May 30, prompting the court to take judicial notice of the alarming situation.
Justice Tushar Rao Gedela emphasized the need for immediate action, stating, “It is not far to see the day when this city may be only a barren desert, in case the present generation continues an apathetic view on deforestation.”
The court also addressed the difficulties faced by its former judge, Najmi Waziri, who was appointed as the chairperson of an internal departmental committee tasked with forest protection in Delhi. The committee’s effectiveness has been hampered by a lack of infrastructure, including office space, secretarial staff, and transportation.
Justice Gedela expressed the court’s dissatisfaction with the current situation, insisting that the Department of Forest and Wildlife must ensure that Waziri and the committee have the necessary resources to perform their duties. The court directed the department to expedite the approval process and ensure all requirements are met by June 15.
According to a report filed by the committee chairperson through advocate R Arunadhri Iyer, the Delhi government had been informed of the infrastructure needs, but the approval process was still pending. The chief conservator of forests confirmed that the request had been submitted to the concerned minister and would then proceed to the Cabinet and the lieutenant governor for final approval.
The court emphasized that once approval is granted, the infrastructure development must be completed within 15 days. The next hearing is scheduled for July 29, by which time the court expects all arrangements to be in place and fully functional.
In response to suggestions from the amicus curiae, the court agreed to rename the committee as the “Special Empowered Committee” instead of the “Internal Departmental Committee.” The court reiterated that all relevant officers must attend committee meetings unless there are exceptional circumstances, and any absences should be communicated in advance.
The strict measures are intended to ensure that the committee can effectively address the worsening climatic conditions in Delhi. The high court had previously directed the formation of the committee to take concrete steps for the protection, preservation, reclamation, and enhancement of forests in Delhi.
The Delhi government is also required to provide adequate office accommodation and cover all expenses for the committee’s functioning, including suitable remuneration.