SC panel nixes covering of storm water drain for Games

The PWD had two proposals for the area adjoining the stadium. The first was to cut down 326 trees along Siri Fort Road and widen it by 3 metres on each side — so the cavalcades can reach the venues.

The other was to cut down 78 trees along August Kranti Marg and the storm water drain. The proposal also called for covering the drain to widen the road. In its application,the PWD argued that this was for “road widening and also because of the foul smell emanating from the nullah carrying sewage and other waste — keeping in view the location and the stadium near the nullah”.

But during a visit to the site,the CEC found that the “sewage” canal — which finds mention in the Masterplan as a storm water drain — was just that: a storm water drain which only carries rain water.

In its report filed to the Supreme Court,the CEC noted: “It is found that the nullah proposed to be covered for widening the road is actually a storm water drain. Prima facie,the proposed design for the covering of the nullah may result in flooding in different areas en-route.”

The CEC is learnt to have taken note of the Defence Colony experience. The area got flooded this year after parts of Barapullah drain were covered to create parking space for the Games.

For widening the Siri Fort road,the CEC has recommended that less space be taken instead of the proposed 3 metres on each side.

The PWD then suggested 2 metres on the south side and 1.5 metres on the north,entailing cutting of only 11 trees. This received a green light from the CEC,which noted in its report: “This is justified,a drastic reduction from 326 trees and in public interest and may be agreed to.”

In a nutshell

Enraged residents approach the Supreme Court on the issue of rampant tree cutting at Siri Fort for the Games

The PWD submits plan to cut down 326 trees on the Siri Fort road for widening it and 73 trees on August Kranti Marg. Both turned down by the forest department.

The PWD files appeal for reconsideration with the Delhi government. The CEC recommends that the Siri Fort road be widened by less than 3 metres on each side. The PWD revises the plan,which is approved by the CEC

The CEC turns down August Kranti Marg proposal