The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has secured approval to fell 364 trees to facilitate construction work for Phase V of the city metro expansion. The permission was granted by the relevant forest authority after assessment of alignment requirements and mitigation proposals. The corporation stated that the clearance is necessary to progress track laying and station construction along the designated corridor.

Officials indicated that compensatory measures will include plantation drives and rehabilitation of green cover in adjacent locations to offset the loss of trees. The authority outlined plans for transplanting saplings where feasible and for planting native species to restore ecological balance. Urban forestry specialists will be engaged to monitor survival rates and to advise on suitable species and planting schedules.

Work scheduling will seek to minimise disruption to commuters and local communities while ensuring compliance with environmental conditions attached to the clearance. Construction activity is expected to follow phased timelines aligned with safety and traffic management plans that have been developed in coordination with municipal agencies. Environmental safeguards will encompass soil preservation, dust control and water management during the construction phase. The corporation will submit periodic compliance reports to the forest authority as required.

Local residents were informed of the approval and of the proposed mitigation steps and will be kept updated on timelines and plantation outcomes. The expansion under Phase V aims to extend urban connectivity and reduce travel times across the network upon completion. The DMRC signalled that the project will continue with oversight to balance infrastructure needs and environmental stewardship.

Detailed schedules and maps of affected stretches will be published online and made available at local offices to assist commuters in planning journeys. The authority emphasised that measures to protect urban biodiversity will be integrated into landscaping around new stations and ongoing maintenance programmes over time.