NGT orders compensatory plantation after illegal felling of 980 trees in Greater Noida

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department to carry out compensatory plantation within a year after nearly 1,000 trees were illegally felled at the former Daewoo Motors factory premises in Greater Noida last year.

“Since undisputedly over 980 trees have been illegally cut, it is the responsibility of the concerned DFO to ensure that adequate compensatory plantation is done within one year,” the tribunal said in its order.

The directive was issued while hearing two connected cases concerning large-scale illegal tree felling on the abandoned industrial land. A fact-finding report by the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department confirmed that 980 trees, including three Neem trees classified as a prohibited species, had been cut without permission.

While noting “adequate action has already been taken against illegal felling of trees,” the NGT said criminal cases would determine individual responsibility based on evidence.

The tribunal also expressed concern over the continued vulnerability of the site, warning further violations must be prevented.

The bench directed the Uttar Pradesh State Industrial Development Authority (UPSIDA) to secure the land by constructing a proper boundary wall within three months. UPSIDA had earlier cancelled the lease of the land after the violations were discovered.

To prevent further damage, the order instructed UPSIDA “to ensure erection of proper boundary around the subject land… and to take all possible steps so that no illegal felling of trees takes place within the said area.”