NGT notices to Centre, U.P. over Taj Mahal zone violations

NGT Issues Notice on Tree Felling and Construction in Agra

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Union Environment Ministry, the Uttar Pradesh government, and others to respond to allegations of illegal tree felling, construction, and encroachment in the ecologically sensitive zone of Agra. This area includes the Taj Mahal and the Agra-Gwalior Highway.

The Principal Bench of the NGT, which includes Chairperson Prakash Shrivastava and expert member A. Senthil Vel, was reviewing an application. This application claimed that the Agra Development Authority was building kiosks, paved paths, and brick-cement structures in Shahjahan Park, located between the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.

The applicant stated that, according to the Supreme Court, any tree felling within a 5 km aerial distance from the Taj Mahal requires prior permission from the court, regardless of the number of trees involved.

The NGT order dated December 23 noted that these allegations raise a “substantial issue” regarding compliance with environmental norms.

The applicant reported that construction pits have been dug near the roots of century-old trees, damaging the green cover and affecting the habitat of birds and butterflies. The applicant also claimed that the Agra Municipal Corporation is illegally constructing a concrete structure for a “selfie point” on the green belt ahead of Madhu Nagar on Gwalior Road.

Additionally, the applicant alleged that many private individuals have cut trees and built structures on the mandatory green belt along the Highway from the 509 Army Base Workshop to Saiya. The L&T has also reportedly cut trees without obtaining the necessary permissions during metro construction work.

The matter is scheduled for a hearing on March 12.