By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi
New Delhi: 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, aimed at curbing illegal felling, damage and unauthorised activities involving trees across the capital.
Describing the move as a “historic decision”, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said protection of Delhi’s green cover remained the government’s top priority and warned that violations of tree protection laws would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The newly issued SOP establishes a transparent and time-bound mechanism for prevention, detection and prosecution of tree-related offences, while strengthening accountability in enforcement.
A key feature of the framework is a rapid response mechanism allowing citizens to register complaints through a toll-free helpline, an online portal and offline channels. According to the government, complaints will be transmitted in real time to field officers, while Quick Response Teams at headquarters and divisional levels will be deployed to reach sites within stipulated timelines, prevent further damage and gather scientific evidence through geo-tagged photographs and videos.
The SOP also enhances powers of Forest Department officials, including Beat Officers and Tree Officers, enabling them to issue prohibitory orders, seize equipment used in offences and coordinate with law enforcement agencies for swift action.
To bolster surveillance and enforcement, the government has established a Forest Control Room at headquarters and Division Control Rooms at the divisional level, all set to function round the clock for monitoring complaints and coordinating emergency responses.
In a bid to encourage public participation, the government has reactivated the Green Helpline (1800118600) and made the Green Helpline portal operational for citizens to lodge complaints and track their status.
Linking the initiative to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of development in harmony with nature, Ms Gupta said the SOP aligns with broader goals of Green India and sustainable development, while reinforcing Delhi’s commitment to environmental conservation.
Reiterating the government’s resolve to protect the capital’s green assets, the Chief Minister urged residents to actively report violations and support efforts to ensure a cleaner and greener Delhi.
