The Delhi forest department has imposed a fine of Rs 15.3 lakh on DCM Limited for the illegal felling of three trees and damage to 67 trees at Central Square Complex on Manohar Lal Khurana Marg in 2024. The company has also been directed to plant 50 saplings of native species as compensatory plantation.
Complaint and Inspection
The forest department received a complaint from Deepak Aggarwal on April 4, 2024. Officials conducted inspections on April 5, April 26, May 5, 2024, and May 4, 2026. The inspections revealed that tree offences, including felling, pruning, head backing, root damaging, and bark damaging, were committed by DCM Limited, the land-owning agency. An offence case was registered under the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act, 1994.
Observations and Directives
The forest department noted that the trees at the site appeared adversely affected by termites and other pests, with no proper attention being paid. DCM Limited has been directed to carry out proper soil treatment under the supervision of an expert horticulturist. Additionally, the company must get soil samples tested by a government-authorized agency and prepare a preservation plan for the existing trees at the site.
The order was issued on June 17. An official from DCM Limited stated, "Some trees were harmed by workers who were not sensitized about the work. We will take permission from the forest department in the future before undertaking any work."
