At Delhi’s Ridge, contempt of court claims ‘pause’ removal of invasive trees

The High Court in Delhi has paused the removal of invasive trees from the Central Ridge, also known as the Capital's green lungs, following allegations of violations of earlier court directions. The Forest department initiated the clearing to make way for indigenous plantation under the Delhi Eco-restoration Plan 2026-30. Activist Lt Col (Retd) Sarvadaman Singh Oberoi, Managing Trustee of the Aravalli Bachao Citizens Movement, filed a contempt petition against senior Forest department officials alleging disobedience of court directions related to the protection of the ecologically sensitive area.

The High Court has sought a response from Vipul Pandey, Deputy Conservator of Forests (West Division); Shyam Sundar Kandpal, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force; and Rajeev Verma, Chief Secretary, Delhi government. The matter is listed for further hearing on September 24.

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