NGT Acts on Illegal Construction, Tree Felling Near Iconic Taj Mahal

• National Green Tribunal (NGT) issued notice on illegal construction, tree felling, and encroachment near the Taj Mahal and Agra-Gwalior highway.
• Resident Jagan Prasad Tehriya's plea alleges Agra Development Authority built structures in Shahjahan Park, a Mughal-era garden between Taj Mahal and Agra Fort.
• Construction activities violate environmental norms in protected heritage and green zones, destroying green cover and harming bird/butterfly habitats.
• Shahjahan Park is part of the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ); a Supreme Court order mandates court permission for tree felling within 5km of Taj.
• Allegations also include Agra Municipal Corporation building a "selfie point" and L&T cutting trees for Metro without permission. NGT seeks reply from Agra Development Authority in 4 weeks.

Why It Matters: NGT takes serious note of environmental violations threatening the iconic Taj Mahal's surroundings.