New Delhi (Gurpreet Singh): Emphasising the urgent need for sustainable environmental measures, the Supreme Court has indicated that expanding Delhi’s green cover could play a decisive role in addressing the capital’s chronic air pollution problem. The observation came during a hearing connected to alleged tree removal in the ridge region overseen by the Delhi Development Authority.
Presiding over the matter, Chief Justice Surya Kant remarked that when authorities deliberate on improving the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the National Capital Region, large-scale tree plantation stands out as one of the most practical and enduring solutions. He noted that while pollution control requires a combination of measures, strengthening the city’s forest cover offers long-term ecological stability rather than temporary relief.
The bench was examining issues surrounding the proposed appointment of environmental experts to assess concerns linked to tree-felling in the ecologically sensitive ridge belt. Often referred to as the capital’s “green buffer,” the ridge is considered vital for maintaining biodiversity, regulating temperatures, and acting as a natural barrier against pollution.
The court’s comments come against the backdrop of recurring air quality emergencies in Delhi and surrounding NCR districts. Each year, hazardous pollution levels trigger health advisories, school closures, and restrictions on construction and vehicular movement. In this context, the judiciary’s emphasis on afforestation signals a push for preventive and restorative strategies instead of reactive measures alone.
The proceedings are ongoing, with the apex court expected to further examine safeguards for preserving green spaces and ensuring scientific evaluation before decisions impacting forested areas are implemented.
