New Delhi, April 20: Under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the Delhi government has taken significant steps to strengthen environmental protection. The government has notified a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to address crimes related to trees. The Chief Minister described this initiative as a historic decision aimed at safeguarding Delhi’s greenery and enforcing tree protection laws more rigorously.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta explained that this SOP has been notified under Section 33 of the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act, 1994. It establishes a robust, transparent, and timely mechanism to prevent, identify, and prosecute illegal tree cutting, damage, and unauthorized activities. She emphasized that the implementation of this SOP will ensure effective and accountable action in every case of law violation.
The SOP includes a strong rapid response system, allowing citizens to register complaints via a toll-free helpline, online portal, and offline methods. All complaints will be transmitted in real-time to the relevant field officers, ensuring prompt action. Quick Response Teams (QRTs) formed at headquarters and division levels will arrive on-site within a specified timeframe to prevent further damage. They will also scientifically collect evidence through geo-tagged photos and videos.
Rekha Gupta stated that enforcement at the field level has been further empowered under the SOP. Forest department officials, including beat officers and tree officers, have been granted the authority to issue prohibitory orders, seize tools used in violations, and coordinate with law enforcement agencies for swift and effective action in tree protection cases.
To ensure 24-hour monitoring, a Forest Control Room has been established at the headquarters level, along with Division Control Rooms at the division level, operating around the clock. These control rooms are equipped with the necessary infrastructure to continuously monitor complaints and coordinate actions with various emergency services.
The Chief Minister announced the reactivation of the Green Helpline number 1800118600, alongside a Green Helpline portal. These will be widely promoted to encourage more citizens to utilize them. The Green Helpline portal is fully operational, providing an accessible platform for registering complaints and tracking their progress.
Referencing Prime Minister Modi’s vision for environmental protection, the Chief Minister noted that his approach of ‘development with nature’ serves as an inspiration for the nation. Motivated by the central government’s efforts towards achieving a green India and sustainable development, the Delhi government is also taking concrete steps. This SOP is a significant initiative aimed at ensuring a clean, green, and safe environment for future generations.
The Chief Minister reiterated the Delhi government’s commitment to protecting the capital’s green assets and ensuring strict, transparent, and timely action against violators of tree protection laws. She urged citizens to actively participate in environmental protection and promptly report any violations to the relevant authorities to facilitate timely and effective measures.
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