The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed issuing notices to the Union Environment Ministry, Uttar Pradesh government, and others over illegal tree felling and construction near the Taj Mahal. The Principal Bench, led by Chairperson Prakash Shrivastava and expert member A. Senthil Vel, heard an application alleging rule violations in the ecological sensitive zone. The complaint highlights illegal construction of kiosks, brick-cement structures, and paved paths by the Agra Development Authority in Shahjahan Park, located between the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. The NGT cited a Supreme Court rule stating that any tree felling within 5 km of the Taj Mahal needs prior permission from the top court. The NGT’s order dated December 23 noted that "Applicant submits that in the course of construction pits have been dug up near the roots of century old trees and the green cover have been destroyed and the habitat of birds and butterflies is affected. Further allegation of the applicant is that the Agra Municipal Corporation is illegally raising concrete structure for 'selfie point' on the green belt ahead of Madhu Nagar on Gwalior Road," The applicant also claimed private individuals cut trees and built structures on the mandatory green belt along the highway from 509 Army Base Workshop to Saiya. Additionally, L&T allegedly cut trees without permissions during metro construction. The NGT called these allegations a "substantial issue" regarding environmental norms compliance. The matter is scheduled for hearing on March 12.