INVC NEWS
New Delhi — : If any tree in Delhi is leaning dangerously near a road, metro, building, or poses a risk to life and property — people no longer have to wait. RWAs, individuals, or agencies can now upload a report on the e-forest portal with a photo, reason, and geo-location — and take action within 24 hours.
This big change comes after the Environment Department updated the rules under Section 8 of the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act (DPTA) 1994. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the goal is to protect both people and trees. Until now, cutting or pruning any tree without permission from a tree officer was illegal — but now, emergency exemptions are allowed.
New Rules Allow Emergency Tree Cutting, But With Responsibility
If a tree is dead, dry, tilted, or close to falling, it can be cut or pruned immediately after submitting the report online. However, misuse of this emergency rule will invite strict legal action. Officials said the new system helps stop delays in emergencies and also prevents illegal cutting by ensuring full transparency and tracking.
Tree officers have also been given the power to respond immediately in risky situations. The e-forest portal will record all entries to ensure accountability.
This new move by the Delhi Government is designed to make the city safer without compromising on its green cover — making it easier to act fast when life, property, or public infrastructure is in danger.
