Jaipur, August 5: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has adopted a stringent stance regarding illegal encroachments and commercial activities on forest land related to the Jaipur Ropeway Project. The NGT’s Central Zone Bench has directed the Rajasthan Forest Department to take immediate action.
During the hearing on Monday, the tribunal reviewed reports from the Forest Department and the Joint Committee, revealing several serious issues.
According to the report, the upper station, lower station, and parts of the ropeway are constructed on land that was not legally allocated for this project. This area falls within a reserved forest zone.
The report from the Assistant Conservator of Forests highlighted numerous violations, including operating a restaurant without permission, opening fish spas and body massage parlors, using open flames for cooking, improper disposal of plastic waste, installing illegal lighting, and conducting zipline bicycle rides without environmental and safety approvals.
The tribunal expressed dissatisfaction, noting that the case has been pending for over a year without any substantial action taken. The NGT has instructed the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) of Rajasthan to personally oversee the matter. The court was informed that the PCCF has initiated departmental action against the responsible officials.
The NGT ordered the Forest Department to ensure the protection of forest land beyond what has been legally allocated for the ropeway. Any illegal encroachments must be vacated, and action should be taken against the responsible officials.
The tribunal has requested a sworn affidavit and an action taken report from the PCCF or an authorized Chief Conservator of Forests within two weeks. The next hearing is scheduled for August 31.
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