Greater Noida: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken serious note of the alleged illegal felling of more than 980 trees within the premises of a long-shuttered DCM factory in Greater Noida, demanding an explanation from the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department. The factory in question has remained non-operational for over 22 years.
The matter came to light following a petition filed by noted environmentalist Vikrant Tongad, who raised concerns about large-scale deforestation taking place without oversight or authorization. During the proceedings, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) of Uttar Pradesh submitted an affidavit on May 9, acknowledging that 980 trees were indeed felled, primarily acacia, eucalyptus, and neem species.
Only Three Trees Fall Under ‘Prohibited’ Category
The affidavit clarified that only three neem trees fall under the restricted species category as per a government notification dated January 7, 2020, which regulates the cutting of certain tree species even on private land. The remaining 977 trees are considered exempt under current rules—highlighting a significant gap in environmental oversight.
Seized Timber and Environmental Concerns
According to the Forest Department’s report, the wood from the felled trees – measuring 52.359 cubic meters – has been seized and is currently being stored securely at the Surajpur nursery. However, the tribunal expressed concern that the felling was carried out without any environmental monitoring or regulatory intervention, raising questions about the efficacy of the current forestry laws in Uttar Pradesh.
Tribunal Flags Legal Loophole
In a stern observation, the NGT noted the absence of a comprehensive regulatory framework in Uttar Pradesh to monitor or control the felling of trees—even those of exempt species—on private lands. This regulatory vacuum has made it possible for tree cutting to go unchecked, even when it involves large-scale environmental impact.
“Out of the 980 trees cut, 977 were felled without any environmental monitoring whatsoever,” the tribunal remarked.
Legal Proceedings Ongoing
The applicant’s counsel has requested time to submit previous Supreme Court and NGT rulings that may be relevant to the case. The next hearing has been scheduled for September 17, 2025.
Environmentalists have hailed the NGT’s intervention but continue to demand stronger, clearer regulations for tree felling on private property – especially when it occurs at such large scales and in sensitive or urbanizing regions like Greater Noida.
