Delhi Tightens Tree Protection Rules with 24x7 Monitoring System and SOP

  • April 21, 2026, 1:22 p.m.

New Delhi: In a significant move aimed at strengthening urban environmental protection, the Delhi government has officially notified a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to deal with tree-related offences, including illegal felling, damage, and unauthorised activity involving trees.

The decision has been described by officials as a major step toward safeguarding the capital’s green cover amid ongoing urban expansion and environmental concerns.


24x7 Monitoring System Introduced

Under the new framework, the government has set up a forest control room at headquarters level and divisional control rooms at the field level, which will operate round the clock (24x7) to monitor complaints and violations.

In addition, quick response teams (QRTs) have been deployed to ensure real-time action on reported cases of tree damage or illegal cutting.


Green Helpline and Digital Tracking

The SOP strengthens public participation through a dedicated green helpline (1800118600) and an online portal, ghl.eforest.delhi.gov.in, which allows citizens to lodge complaints and track action in real time.

Officials said all complaints will now be transmitted instantly to field officers, ensuring faster intervention and prevention of further damage.


Strict Enforcement Under Tree Protection Law

The SOP has been issued under Section 33 of the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act, 1994, and lays down a structured mechanism for:

  • Prevention of illegal tree felling
  • Detection of violations
  • Time-bound prosecution of offenders
  • Geo-tagged documentation of incidents

Officials confirmed that enforcement teams will be empowered to issue prohibitory orders, seize equipment used in offences, and coordinate with law enforcement agencies.


Real-Time Action and Evidence Collection

Quick response teams will be required to reach incident sites within a stipulated time, collect evidence, and record geo-tagged photos and videos to support legal action.

This system is aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, and faster prosecution of offenders.


Government’s Stand

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta called the initiative a “historic step” and said the protection of trees is a top priority for the government.

She stated that the SOP ensures a “robust, transparent and time-bound mechanism” to deal with violations and prevent illegal destruction of trees across the city.


Objective: Protecting Delhi’s Green Cover

The new system is expected to significantly improve enforcement in cases of illegal tree cutting and environmental damage, especially in a city where rapid construction has often raised concerns over shrinking green spaces.

Officials believe the SOP will ensure stronger accountability and quicker response, helping preserve Delhi’s green cover for future generations.

Author : Rajdhani Delhi Representative

Rajdhani delhi representative

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