Unauthorized logging detected in the Aravalli tract, designated as a forest, within Faridabad's vicinity

In the heart of Faridabad, a dispute concerning the felling of mesquite and axle wood (dhau) trees has been unfolding. The controversy began in 2017 when Haryana permitted the felling of over 7,000 trees for a group housing project by Bharti Land Limited.

Lt Col Sarvadaman Singh Oberoi (retd), the original petitioner before the National Green Tribunal (NGT), has alleged a concerted effort to clear the area of all trees and regeneration, suggesting a suspicious timing following the notification of the definition of forest by the Govt of Haryana.

The NGT held a 52-acre plot in Sarai Khwaja village to be a "deemed forest" in March 2019, rejecting Haryana's contention that the land was not a forest because it was not recorded as such in revenue records. However, the Haryana government moved the Supreme Court three months later, challenging the NGT's order.

Environmental activists have raised concerns over large-scale felling of trees and clearing of vegetation in Sarai Khwaja village. The Forest Department officials, aiming to stop illegal encroachments and protect the forest area, tried to seize the land under the pretext of deforestation.

The definition of forest by the Govt of Haryana requires a minimum canopy density of 40% and coverage of at least five hectares if isolated, or two hectares if contiguous with government-notified forests. The definition excludes all linear, compact agroforestry plantations and orchards outside notified forests.

Oberoi has submitted photos and videos of the felling to the forest department. The DFO, Faridabad Forest Division, confirmed that the department had acted on the complaint and stopped the clearing of vegetation.

The case, currently under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court, has had only one hearing so far. With potential implications for real estate projects across the Aravallis, the outcome of this case is eagerly awaited. The next hearing for the case is scheduled for September 17, 2025.

The case arose amidst allegations of a concerted effort to clear the area, raising questions about the motives behind the felling of thousands of trees in Faridabad's Aravallis. As the dispute continues, the focus remains on preserving the region's greenery and ensuring environmental sustainability.

Unauthorized logging detected in the Aravalli tract, designated as a forest, within Faridabad's vicinity