Order of the National Green Tribunal (Eastern Zone Bench) in the matter of Awadhesh Kumar Pandey Vs State of Jharkhand dated 07/07/2023.

The applicant has requested for immediate halting of the concretization drive in Telco Colony and surrounding areas of Jamshedpur till a comprehensive Environment Impact Assessment is conducted to undertake de-concretization measures, specifically for the removal of concrete and tiling around tree roots and provision for adequate space and soil for their growth and sustenance.

The NGT, Eastern Zone Bench directed a four-member committee headed by the Deputy Commissioner, East Singhbhum, Jamshedpur to carry out an inspection of the area and give facts and figures with regard to the number of trees within the Jamshedpur Notified Area and other areas in Jamshedpur.

The court directed that it should be ensured that there shall be no concrete or construction or repair material work at least within one-meter radius of the trunk of trees. All paving tiles, road construction materials should be removed within a one-meter radius of the base of trees to ensure that rainwater seeps through to the roots of the trees. Trees that have died or are beyond restoration or revival shall be replaced with adequate species of trees.

The court said the committee needs to ensure that the directions given are duly carried out during the forthcoming monsoon season and file an affidavit of compliance by September 11, 2023.