NGT Summons Chandigarh Chief Secretary in Bulk Market Environmental Case
Alleged Felling of 332 Trees and Environmental Violations Under Tribunal’s Scrutiny; Hearing on August 31
Chandigarh, August 29, 2026: The environmental dispute over the proposed Bulk Market Project in Sector 56, Chandigarh, has reached a crucial stage after the National Green Tribunal (NGT), Principal Bench, New Delhi, directed the Chief Secretary, UT Chandigarh, to appear virtually before the Tribunal and assist in the proceedings.
The direction was issued in Original Application No. 158/2026 (IA No. 165/2026), Dr. Rajinder K. Singla vs. Union Territory of Chandigarh & Others. The matter was heard on May 20, 2026, by a Bench headed by Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Chairperson, along with Expert Members Dr. A. Senthil Vel and Dr. Afroz Ahmad.
The Tribunal noted the applicant’s submission that Respondent No. 1 had allegedly refused to accept the notice. Considering the party to be contesting the matter, the Tribunal directed the Chief Secretary, UT Chandigarh, to appear virtually on the next date of hearing.
The case involves allegations of environmental non-compliance relating to the approximately 44-acre Bulk Market Project, which reportedly comprises 191 one-kanal commercial plots and 48 booth sites.
According to an application filed by whistleblower and RTI activist Dr. Rajinder K. Singla, the project allegedly falls under Item 8(a)/8(b) of the EIA Notification, 2006, potentially requiring prior Environmental Clearance. The applicant has alleged that the project proceeded without obtaining the required Environmental Clearance (EC), Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO).
A major concern raised before the Tribunal is the alleged felling of approximately 332 trees during preparatory work. The application also alleges that proper Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), public consultation and statutory environmental appraisal were not undertaken before the project moved forward.
Dr. Singla has sought a comprehensive examination of the alleged environmental violations, appropriate ecological restoration and environmental compensation under the Polluter Pays Principle. He has also urged compliance with the principles of precautionary action, sustainable development and public trust.
In its May 20 order, the NGT permitted the applicant to implead the Forest Department through its Secretary as a respondent. The Tribunal also recorded submissions concerning the role of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) in granting Environmental Clearance and directed that the order be forwarded to the Ministry.
Dr. Singla said the environmental concerns were initially raised through an RTI application dated September 9, 2025, seeking information on environmental approvals, tree felling and other aspects of the project. He alleged that the requested information was not provided within the prescribed period, following which he approached the NGT.
The matter is now listed for further hearing on August 31, 2026.
Dr. Singla has maintained that his objective is not to oppose development, but to ensure that urban development is carried out in accordance with environmental laws and that ecological interests and the rights of future generations are protected.
Dr. Rajinder K. Singla
Mob.: 9877063169
Email: rajinderksingla1@gmail.com
