UP Government Submits Affidavit to NGT, Denies Tree Felling in Agra's Shahjahan Park
In a significant development, the Uttar Pradesh government has formally responded to environmental concerns raised before the National Green Tribunal (NGT), asserting that no trees were illegally felled in Agra's Shahjahan Park and the Bundu Katra area along Gwalior Road. This statement was made in an affidavit submitted by Rakesh Kumar, the regional director of social forestry, during a hearing before the NGT's principal bench.
Background of the Environmental Plea and NGT's Involvement
The NGT had earlier this month issued notices to the Central government, the Uttar Pradesh government, and other concerned parties following a plea that alleged illegal tree cutting and encroachments in the ecologically sensitive zones of Agra district. The plea specifically highlighted areas around the iconic Taj Mahal and along the Agra-Gwalior highway, raising alarms about potential violations of environmental norms.
The petition was filed by Agra-based activist Jagan Prasad Tehriya, who claimed that extensive damage to vegetation occurred during construction activities in Shahjahan Park, along Gwalior Road, and in other parts of the city. Tehriya argued that these actions violated Supreme Court orders governing the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ), a protected area designed to safeguard the Taj Mahal from pollution. He detailed how excavation work near the roots of ancient trees had harmed the green cover and disrupted the natural habitats of birds and butterflies, posing a threat to local biodiversity.
Joint Inspection and Findings by Authorities
Acting on the complaint, the NGT directed officials to conduct a thorough investigation and submit a factual report. In response, a joint inspection was carried out by the forest department and social forestry teams. Their visit on March 19 revealed that while construction and excavation activities were observed, no trees had been cut down. Authorities have since confirmed that all work at the site has been halted to prevent any further environmental impact.
The Taj Trapezium Zone, which spans approximately 10,400 square kilometers around the Taj Mahal, was established to protect the monument from industrial and urban pollution. It includes districts such as Agra, Mathura, Firozabad, Hathras, and Etah in Uttar Pradesh, along with Bharatpur in Rajasthan and parts of Aligarh and Dholpur. This zone is critical for maintaining the ecological balance and preserving the heritage site.
Petitioner's Objections and Next Steps in the Hearing
Despite the government's affidavit, the petitioner, Jagan Prasad Tehriya, has questioned the findings of the joint inspection report. He cited inconsistencies in the documentation and has sought additional time to file formal objections before the next hearing. This indicates that the matter is far from resolved, with both sides presenting conflicting evidence that the NGT will need to scrutinize carefully.
The ongoing hearing underscores the importance of environmental protection in sensitive areas like the Taj Trapezium Zone. As the case progresses, stakeholders await further developments to ensure compliance with legal frameworks and safeguard Agra's natural and cultural heritage.
