The Delhi Forest Department has issued a circular to clarify the legal definition of a “tree” under the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act (DPTA), 1994, aiming to remove confusion in tree counting and management.
What Defines a Tree?
As per Section 2(i) of the Act, a tree is a woody plant with a trunk of at least 5 cm in diameter (measured 30 cm above ground level) and a height of at least 1 metre.
Clarification on Counting
Branches or shoots from the soil cannot be treated as separate trees. Species like kikar and babool, which have multiple basal branches, must be counted only as one tree if they share the same trunk base.
Significance for Pruning
Pruning is allowed to remove weak or dangerous branches for safety and healthy growth. Shoots from the base may be cut to promote new branches and fruit production. The clarification ensures pruning is not misinterpreted as tree felling.
Impact
The move ensures uniform application of the law, prevents inflated tree counts, and supports accurate data for urban forest management. It also strengthens ecological balance and reduces legal disputes.
