NGT issues notice to UP authorities over alleged illegal construction and tree felling near Taj Mahal’s ecologically sensitive zone.
Case in NewsNGT notices UP over Taj area construction, flagging environmental violations near the Taj Mahal zone . |
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Case Overview
Case Name: Jagan Prasad Tehriya v. State of Uttar Pradesh & Ors.
In Jagan Prasad Tehriya v. State of Uttar Pradesh & Ors., the National Green Tribunal took suo motu cognizance of alleged environmental violations in ecologically sensitive areas of Agra . A two-member Bench comprising Justice Prakash Shrivastava (Chairperson) and expert member A. Senthil Vel issued notice on December 23 to the Uttar Pradesh Government, Agra Development Authority, and other authorities . The case concerns alleged illegal constructions, encroachments and Tree Felling in protected zones surrounding the Taj Mahal and along the Agra–Gwalior Highway .
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Key Aspects
The Tribunal examined allegations highlighting unchecked development activities in heritage-sensitive and green belt areas . Emphasis was placed on balancing urban development with Environmental Protection obligations .
- Alleged construction of kiosks, paved paths and brick-cement structures in Shahjahan Park .
- Digging of pits near roots of century-old trees affecting green cover and biodiversity .
- Construction of concrete “selfie point” structures on designated green belts .
- Tree cutting and encroachments by private entities and during metro construction works .
Legal Insights
The case raises critical questions regarding statutory environmental safeguards near protected monuments . The Tribunal considered binding judicial precedents and environmental regulatory frameworks .
- Environment (Protection) Act, 1986: Mandates protection of ecologically sensitive zones .
- NGT Act, 2010: Empowers Tribunal to adjudicate environmental disputes .
- MC Mehta v. Union of India (2025): Supreme Court approval mandatory for any tree felling within five kilometres of the Taj Mahal .
- Doctrine of sustainable development applied to heritage conservation zones .
Court’s Verdict
The National Green Tribunal issued notice to the concerned authorities directing them to file replies within four weeks . The Tribunal recorded serious environmental concerns and listed the matter for further hearing on March 12 underscoring strict compliance with environmental norms around the Taj Mahal .
Source – Green Tribunal
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