New Delhi, April 20 (NationPress) In a significant move for environmental conservation, the Delhi government has implemented a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and reactivated the Green Helpline number 1800118600 to report tree-related offences, an official announced on Monday.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta hailed this initiative as a groundbreaking decision aimed at preserving Delhi's green spaces and ensuring stringent enforcement of tree protection laws, as stated in an official release.

She noted that the SOP was established by the Department of Forests and Wildlife under Section 33 of the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act, 1994.

This protocol creates a strong, transparent, and time-sensitive framework for preventing, identifying, and prosecuting illegal activities involving trees, including felling and damage.

The Chief Minister emphasized that the execution of this SOP would guarantee effective and accountable measures in every instance of violation.

Gupta mentioned that a rapid response system has been set up under the SOP, allowing citizens to report issues through a toll-free helpline, an online portal, and offline channels.

All reports will be communicated in real-time to the relevant field officers to ensure timely action. Quick Response Teams formed at both headquarters and division levels will arrive at the scene promptly to mitigate further harm and will collect evidence scientifically through geo-tagged photographs and videos, according to the statement.

Furthermore, the Chief Minister indicated that enforcement at the field level has been significantly bolstered under this SOP.

Officials within the Forest Department, including Beat Officers and Tree Officers, now possess the authority to issue prohibitory orders to avert violations, confiscate equipment utilized in offences, and collaborate with law enforcement agencies for swift and effective actions regarding tree protection.

To guarantee continuous monitoring, a Forest Control Room has been established at the headquarters level, complemented by Division Control Rooms operating 24/7.

These control rooms are equipped with essential infrastructure to ensure ongoing oversight of complaints and coordinated responses with various emergency services.

The Chief Minister reiterated the reactivation of the Green Helpline number 1800118600, alongside the fully functional Green Helpline portal (https://ghl.eforest.delhi.gov.in).

These resources will be extensively promoted to encourage greater involvement from citizens. The portal offers an accessible platform for filing complaints and monitoring their progress.

Referencing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for environmental preservation, Gupta said that his philosophy of ‘development in harmony with nature’ serves as a guiding principle for the nation.

This SOP marks a vital step towards ensuring a clean, green, and secure environment for future generations, she asserted.