The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Secretaries of the Delhi government’s Revenue and Forest Departments to appear before it on December 19 in connection with demarcation of the Southern Ridge.
Noting inconsistencies in submissions made by various departments on details regarding the total Ridge area, a Bench headed by NGT judicial member Justice Raghuvendra S. Rathore said, “Even the affidavits filed by different departments from time to time do not fully reconcile.”
“Therefore, it is necessary to summon Secretary, Department of Revenue, and Secretary, Department of Forest, of the Delhi government, on the next date of hearing. They are directed to come fully prepared in respect of the present case, along with all relevant documents in respect of the total area, the measurements done, demarcation by way of erection of pillars and possession of land actually handed over,” the Bench said.
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Further, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests has been directed to file an affidavit stating the time required to take possession of the demarcated forest land in the Southern Ridge. The directions came while the green panel was hearing a plea filed by city resident Sonya Ghosh and others, alleging encroachments on forest land in Southern Ridge. The plea has sought removal of these encroachments.
Earlier, the NGT had come down heavily on the State government for its “casual” approach to demarcation of forest land in Southern Ridge.