404 trees to be transplanted for construction of new Parliament

NEW DELHI: A total of 404 trees will be transplanted for the construction of the new Parliament building in New Delhi and the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi has given permission for the same, as per official documents. The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC), while approving the project had stated that only 233 trees would be transplanted for the same.

“Project proponent has also informed the Expert Appraisal Committee that there are 333 trees at Plot No. 118. Out of these, 100 trees to be retained and 233 trees to be transplanted and no trees will be cut. In addition, other vegetation will also require to be cleared to develop the new Parliament building,” the Ministry had said in the environmental clearance for the project on June 17.

The Environment Department of the Government of Delhi carried out an inspection at the site, following which, a notification was issued by the department on September 16 giving permission for 404 trees to be transplanted. In addition to this, as compensation for the trees being transplanted, 4,040 saplings will have to be planted.

The Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has started the transplantation work and has to inform the Government of Delhi upon its completion.