NGT defers proceedings on tree felling in South Delhi

NEW DELHI: Noting that "simultaneous consideration" of the same issue at different legal forums was not appropriate, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday deferred proceedings on a plea seeking a stay on the proposed tree felling in seven South Delhi colonies.

A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel said the Delhi high court was already seized of the issue and parallel proceedings should be avoided.

The green panel said it would look into the issue once the high court decides the matter. "The order of Delhi High Court dated July 4, proceeded on the same issue... simultaneous consideration of the same issue at different legal fora is not appropriate. Accordingly, we defer proceedings," the bench, also comprising Jawad Rahim and S P Wangdi, said.

The tribunal had earlier extended its order to maintain status quo on tree felling in seven south Delhi colonies by the Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry and the National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC).