HC asks Centre to file reply on steps taken to protect trees

The petition pointed out that trees on the pavements have become weak due to concretisation as roots were not getting sufficient nourishment.

Advocate Sugreev Dubey, appearing for the petitioner, pointed out that trees were getting uprooted at the slightest of storms causing havoc and heavy traffic jam in the capital.

"The roots of trees are being weakened by the government's action because of rampant concretisation of pavements in the capital and the concrete has to be removed for the protection of trees," Dubey pleaded before a Bench headed by Chief Justice A P Shah.

The court, after hearing his contention, issued notice to the government and asked them to file reply on steps taken by them for protection of trees.

The petition referred to the August 21 storms during which the capital came to standstill after many trees fell on the roads across the city.

"Concrete pavements are preventing adequate supply of water needed for growth of roots. Steps have to be taken by the government to remove the concrete around the roots of the trees," the petitioner said.