In a landmark ruling on Friday, the High Court of Delhi underscored the critical relationship between green cover and protection from escalating temperatures, particularly in areas such as Mungeshpur and Narela, which have been left barren. With scorching summer temperatures wreaking havoc, the court emphasized the urgent need to safeguard Delhi’s forests with decisive action.

The court, convened by two separate benches, highlighted the pressing issue of soaring temperatures and stressed the imperative of protecting Delhi’s forests with a sense of urgency akin to wartime measures. Justice Jasmeet Singh, citing a report from a leading news agency, pointed out the staggering disparity in temperatures across various locations in Delhi. While Mungeshpur and Narela recorded a staggering maximum temperature of 49.9 degrees Celsius earlier in the week, areas with better green cover, such as Safdarjung and Lodhi Road, reported comparatively lower temperatures around 45 degrees Celsius.

Directing the Principal Secretary of Delhi Government’s Environment and Forests department to take immediate action, Justice Jasmeet Singh emphasized that trees serve as the most formidable defense against rising temperatures. The court demanded an explanation from the forest department regarding the inadequate plantation of trees in Mungeshpur and Narela.

Meanwhile, Justice Tushar Rao Gedela took “judicial notice” of the alarming breach of 52 degrees Celsius in Mungeshpur, reminding authorities of their responsibility towards future generations who will inhabit the city. “Six months we are a furnace & gas chamber,” remarked the court, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. In response, the court issued a series of directives to reinforce a court-appointed high-powered committee established earlier to monitor and enhance Delhi’s green cover.

The court’s ruling comes at a crucial juncture as Delhi grapples with the dual challenges of rising temperatures and dwindling green spaces. The scorching heatwave, exacerbated by climate change and urbanization, poses a significant threat to public health and well-being. Experts warn that unless immediate action is taken to mitigate the impact of rising temperatures, Delhi could face dire consequences in the years to come.

Delhi, known for its severe air pollution and extreme weather conditions, has been at the forefront of environmental activism and policy interventions. However, the recent court ruling underscores the need for more proactive measures to address the root causes of environmental degradation and climate change.

Environmentalists and activists have long called for increased afforestation efforts and the preservation of existing green spaces to mitigate the effects of climate change. Trees not only provide shade and cooling effects but also play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide and improving air quality.

The court’s directive to the Delhi Government’s Environment and Forests department to expedite tree plantation drives in areas like Mungeshpur and Narela sends a clear message about the urgency of the situation. It also highlights the importance of government accountability in addressing environmental challenges and safeguarding public health.

In addition to tree plantation drives, the court’s emphasis on strengthening the monitoring mechanisms for Delhi’s green cover is a welcome step towards ensuring long-term sustainability. By holding authorities accountable and promoting transparency in environmental governance, the court sets a precedent for effective environmental stewardship.

The court’s ruling serves as a wake-up call for policymakers, urging them to prioritize environmental conservation and sustainable development. It underscores the interconnectedness of environmental health and human well-being, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches to address the challenges posed by climate change.