Agra Development Authority and Others Under Scrutiny for Alleged Illegal Activities in Ecologically Sensitive Zones
In a significant move to address environmental concerns near one of the world's most iconic landmarks, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued notices to the State of Uttar Pradesh and other involved parties regarding allegations of illegal activities compromising ecological integrity near the Taj Mahal. The case, titled Jagan Prasad Tehriya v. State of Uttar Pradesh, was heard by the Principal Bench of the NGT in New Delhi, under the leadership of Justice Prakash Shrivastava and Dr. A. Senthil Vel.
The applicant, Jagan Prasad Tehriya, raised substantial allegations regarding illegal felling of trees, unauthorized construction, and encroachments in the environmentally sensitive zones surrounding the Taj Mahal and along the Agra-Gwalior Highway. These activities, as alleged, are in direct violation of environmental norms and threaten the region's ecological balance, particularly affecting the century-old Shahjahan Park.
The tribunal's order highlighted the severity of the allegations, which include the Agra Development Authority's construction activities within the park, damaging the habitat of birds and butterflies. It was noted that the construction involved digging near the roots of ancient trees and the erection of unauthorized structures, such as kiosks and paved paths.
Further allegations were directed towards the Agra Municipal Corporation for building a concrete "selfie point" on a designated green belt and against private individuals and companies for indiscriminate tree cutting along the highway. The applicant referenced a Supreme Court order from May 2025, emphasizing that any tree felling within a 5 km radius of the Taj Mahal requires prior permission from the court.
In response to these allegations, the NGT has mandated that all respondents, including the newly impleaded Agra Development Authority, submit their reply affidavits within four weeks. The tribunal has scheduled the next hearing for March 12, 2026, allowing time for all parties to prepare their cases.
This case underscores the ongoing struggle between development and preservation in ecologically sensitive areas, highlighting the need for strict compliance with environmental laws to protect India's natural heritage.
Bottom Line:
Environmental Law - Allegations of illegal felling of trees, illegal construction, and encroachment in ecologically sensitive zones, particularly near the Taj Mahal and along the Agra-Gwalior Highway, highlighting substantial issues of compliance with environmental norms.
Statutory provision(s): Environment Protection Act, 1986
