North-East Delhi’s long-awaited infrastructure upgrade is set to begin. With LG approval for necessary tree removals under strict environmental norms, the project will bring an elevated road, drainage, and rainwater harvesting, promising smoother traffic and better urban amenities.
BY PC Bureau
NEW DELHI – June 4, 2025 – Delhi Lieutenant Governor (LG) V.K. Saxena has granted crucial approval for the exemption of a 2.16-hectare area in North-East Delhi, clearing a significant hurdle for the long-awaited flyover project at the Nand Nagri – Gagan Cinema junction. This decision paves the way for essential infrastructure development aimed at alleviating severe traffic congestion and improving connectivity in the region.
The exemption, which addresses the transplantation or felling of 27 trees, received prior clearance from the Environment Department, the Chief Secretary, the Environment Minister, and the Chief Minister, Rekha Gupta.
“This is a major decision that will help clear the last hurdle in the way of infrastructure development in North-East Delhi,” a statement from the LG’s office noted.
The approval was granted under Section 29 of the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act (DPTA), 1994, following a comprehensive proposal from the Department of Forest and Wildlife. This proposal was initiated at the request of the Public Works Department (PWD), which sought permission for the removal of the 27 trees deemed necessary for the construction of the flyover along Mangal Pandey Marg. Authorities have confirmed that compensatory transplantation and afforestation will be undertaken as per laid down norms for any trees removed.
Project Scope and Environmental Compliance:
The comprehensive flyover project will encompass a range of critical developments, including:
- Construction of an elevated corridor
- Footpaths
- Comprehensive road work
- Road signage
- Electrical installations
- Advanced drainage systems
- Rainwater harvesting facilities
All components of the project will be executed under an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) model, designed to ensure efficiency and accountability throughout its lifecycle.
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In a move underscoring environmental diligence, the project’s approval also adheres to the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India’s order dated December 19, 2024. This order mandates that any exercise of powers under Section 29 of the DPTA must undergo thorough review and approval by the Central Empowered Committee (CEC). The CEC had already approved the draft notification format for such exemptions, a format meticulously vetted by the Law Department in a related case involving the transplantation and felling of 476 trees for the Common Central Secretariat Building at Maulana Azad Road. This precedent highlights the careful consideration given to environmental impacts in large-scale infrastructure projects across the capital.
The Nand Nagri and Gagan Cinema flyover project is anticipated to significantly improve daily commuting for thousands of residents in North-East Delhi, ensuring that urban development proceeds in a manner that balances the city’s growing needs with environmental
preservation.
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