NGT Uncovers Environmental Violations in Delhi's Dwarka Sports Arena Project
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued a significant order against the proposed Integrated multi-sports arena project in Dwarka's Sector 19B, New Delhi. In a ruling that highlights serious environmental breaches, the tribunal found that no environmental clearance was granted for this major infrastructure initiative. The NGT has directed immediate action to address illegal construction activities and the unauthorised felling of trees at the site.
Project Details and Legal Challenge
This sports infrastructure project is being developed by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model with real estate developer Omaxe. The project proponent is Worldstreet Sports Center Limited, a subsidiary of Omaxe Ltd. A plea was filed in the tribunal in 2025, alleging that the project proponent engaged in massive illegal tree felling and construction without obtaining the necessary permissions, thereby violating environmental norms.
Tribunal's Findings and Rejection of 'Deemed Clearance' Claim
The bench, comprising Justice Prakash Shrivastava and expert member A Senthil Vel, noted in its order dated April 22 that no environmental clearance had been issued for the project. The tribunal recorded that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) indicated the project status on the PARIVESH portal as "ADS Raised," meaning additional documents were still pending from the ministry. Furthermore, the tribunal observed that the project proponent undertook unauthorised construction beyond permissible temporary activities.
The NGT firmly rejected the project proponent's argument of "deemed environmental clearance" under Clause 8(iii) of the EIA Notification, 2006. The tribunal held that such a benefit can only be claimed when the application is complete in all respects, all procedural requirements are fulfilled, and there is a clear and unconditional recommendation by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC). In this case, the EAC recommendation was conditional, specifically requiring prior permission for cutting trees, as the site has nearly 2,000 trees. However, no such permission was obtained before the tree felling occurred.
Evidence of Illegal Tree Felling and Lack of Permissions
The tribunal noted that no prior permission was granted under the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act, 1994 for felling trees. Photographs and satellite imagery placed on record clearly showed illegal tree felling activities. The order stated, "The subsequent approval granted by the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) on February 17 is of no consequence, as the alleged tree felling had occurred much earlier." This highlights the timing discrepancy and underscores the violations.
Directives Issued by the NGT
The bench has issued several directives to address these environmental violations:
- The concerned tree officer is directed to carry out an immediate spot inspection to ascertain the number of trees illegally felled by the project proponent before the CEC approval dated February 17. Remedial and punitive action must be taken within eight weeks.
- The Delhi Pollution Control Committee is instructed to inspect the site, assess violations of environmental norms, and take appropriate action.
- The MoEF&CC is asked to make a final decision on granting environmental clearance in accordance with the law, while considering the violations noted in the order.
Responses from Involved Parties
No response was received from the DDA in this matter. However, Worldstreet Sports Center Limited issued a statement in response to the NGT order. The company announced that it is filing an appeal against the said order. "We have taken note of the NGT's order and will comply with all directions of the authorities concerned. The project developer has consistently followed due process and applicable environmental norms. Further, permission for tree cutting has already been granted by the CEC. We remain committed to executing the project in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations," said the statement.
This case underscores the critical importance of adhering to environmental regulations in urban development projects, particularly in densely populated areas like Delhi. The NGT's intervention aims to ensure accountability and prevent further ecological damage while setting a precedent for future projects.
