On December 9, the Supreme Court expressed dissatisfaction with the Delhi government’s failure to take meaningful steps to increase green cover in the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. A bench comprising Justice Abhay S. Oka and Justice Augustine George Masih announced its intention to appoint an external agency to suggest and oversee measures to address the issue. The amici curiae were directed to propose suitable agencies by the next hearing on December 18, 2024.
Background and Court’s Observations
The matter stems from an order passed on June 26, 2024, where the Court directed the Delhi Forest Department to hold meetings and implement strategies based on recommendations from a three-member expert committee. These measures were aimed at mitigating the loss of green cover, which has been linked to extreme heatwave conditions in the region. Despite holding meetings, the Delhi government failed to provide a comprehensive report or propose actionable measures.
Justice Oka criticized the Forest Department, stating that merely convening meetings without substantive outcomes does not satisfy the Court’s expectations. The Court decided to appoint an external agency to propose actionable solutions, allowing amici curiae to suggest candidates for this role.
Recommendations and Suggestions
Senior Advocate S. Guru Krishnakumar, one of the amici curiae, proposed curbing the trend of multiple vehicles per household in Delhi by amending the Motor Vehicles Act. He suggested imposing additional taxes on households owning more than two vehicles and using the revenue to improve public transport infrastructure. The need for public sector vehicles to transition to electric vehicles (EVs) was also emphasized.
Justice Oka, in a lighter vein, remarked on the affordability of housing in cities like Delhi and Mumbai, stating that only those who can own multiple cars can afford such properties.
Next Steps
The Court will review the proposed external agencies on December 18, 2024. In the meantime, it urged the Delhi government to intensify its efforts and address the concerns raised effectively.
Case Details
Case Title: MC Mehta v. Union of India & Ors.
Case Number: Writ Petition (Civil) No. 4677/1985
This ongoing case underscores the judiciary’s increasing focus on environmental preservation and urban sustainability, particularly in heavily polluted cities like Delhi.
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