Env minister orders suspension of two

NEW DELHI: Delhi environment minister Imran Hussain on Tuesday found large-scale encroachment in the south Delhi’s Chhattarpur ridge area during a surprise inspection.

The minister has asked the forest department to suspend two forest range officers for their alleged failure to protect forest land and not taking action against encroachers.

The minister, accompanied by forest officials, inspected the ridge area adjoining Chhattarpur Enclave-ii and found a large area being occupied by private people.

“Inspected the ridge area and found large-scale encroachment. We directed the forest department to suspend the officers responsible for inaction and conduct a detailed enquiry into the matter,” the minister said in a statement.

He asked the principal chief conservator (forest) to seek an explanation from the forest officers for failing to detect the largescale encroachment and initiate departmental action against the guilty.

Some recently built structures were found, which were demolished on the spot, the statement said. “While the government is taking all steps to provide fresh air to citizens, certain vested interests are indulging in illegally occupying forest areas, apparently in collusion with departmental officials, and causing irreparable damage to ecosystem of Delhi,” said Hussain.

The minister directed the department to lodge FIRS against encroachers and trespassers, including for violation of relevant environment and forest laws.

“The department must take immediate steps for the protection and conservation of forest land by ensuring proper fencing. Display notice boards must be put up at various forest locations, warning trespassers of action,” it said.