'One Life Lost, What Can Be More Eye-Opening For MCD?': Delhi High Court Orders Pruning Of Trees In Dwarka

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday directed pruning of trees in Dwarka here, underscoring that several incidents of falling of trees causing damage to life and property are reported during the monsoon and heavy rains.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice DK Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela directed the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Public Works Department (PWD) to conduct a survey of Dwarka region to find out which trees are required to be pruned.

“It is common knowledge that during monsoon, whenever there are heavy rains, several incidents of falling of trees causing damage to life and property both are reported. The facts warrant the authorities to act promptly and follow the SOP as contained in the notification dated May 02, 2025,” the Court said.

The Bench directed that the survey be completed within 10 days by the civic authorities.

“The appropriate authority of the MCD, in cooperation with the appropriate authority of the PWD and authority of any other body shall get a survey of Dwarka region of South-West district be conducted to find out which trees are required to be pruned,” the Court said.

Further, the Bench directed that on completion of the survey in question, necessary action required in terms of the SOP shall be taken in the entire Dwarka area and all the trees where pruning is required shall be attended to by the authorities by deploying adequate number of workforce.

“The pruning of trees in Dwarka shall be completed within four weeks after the survey is completed in terms of this order,” the Court said.

As the counsel appearing for MCD asked for extension of time for completion of the entire task, the Court orally remarked, “We have lost a life. What else can be more eyeopening for MCD? Is human life so…?”

The matter will now be heard in October.

Title: Govind v. Sub Divisional Magistrate & Ors