CBI Registers FIR Against Godrej Estate Developers and Berkeley Realtech for Environmental Violations
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Berkeley Realtech Ltd and Godrej Estate Developers for alleged violations of wildlife laws in Chandigarh. The companies are accused of developing projects wi
CbiFirEnvironmental ViolationsGodrej Estate DevelopersBerkeley RealtechReal Estate NewsFeb 25, 2025
The FIR, filed on Tuesday, alleges that both companies have violated wildlife laws by developing projects within the 10 km radius of the eco-sensitive zones of the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary and the City Bird Sanctuary in Chandigarh.
The CBI's action is based on the findings from a preliminary enquiry (PE) registered in 2023.
The PE was initiated following a complaint from an under secretary at Punjab Raj Bhawan, which highlighted the potential environmental violations by these companies.
The PE concluded that the projects, Berkeley Square and Godrej Eternia, had indeed breached environmental laws.
Berkeley Square, developed by Berkeley Realtech Ltd, which is now known as RSA Motors Pvt Ltd, and Godrej Eternia, developed by Godrej Estate Developers, are both located in Chandigarh's Industrial Area.
The projects are situated within the 10 km radius of the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary and the City Bird Sanctuary, which are designated as eco-sensitive zones.
The CBI alleges that the construction and development activities in these areas have had a detrimental impact on the local wildlife and environment.
The FIR, attached with the detailed findings from the preliminary enquiry, outlines the specific violations and the potential consequences of the companies' actions.
The CBI has initiated a thorough investigation to gather more evidence and determine the extent of the environmental damage caused by the projects.
Environmental advocates and local residents have long raised concerns about the potential impact of commercial and residential developments in and around these eco-sensitive zones.
The registration of the FIR by the CBI is a significant step towards ensuring that companies comply with environmental laws and regulations.
As of now, no immediate reactions were available from Berkeley Realtech Ltd or Godrej Estate Developers.
However, the FIR is likely to have significant implications for both companies, including potential legal repercussions and the need to address the environmental damage caused by their projects.
The CBI's action underscores the importance of environmental protection and the need for strict adherence to wildlife laws.
It serves as a reminder to all developers and companies that eco-sensitive zones must be respected and protected to preserve the natural habitats and wildlife in these areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CBI's role in this case?
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is the primary investigative agency in India. In this case, the CBI has registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Berkeley Realtech Ltd and Godrej Estate Developers for alleged violations of wildlife laws.
What are the alleged violations?
The companies are accused of developing projects within the 10 km radius of the eco-sensitive zones of the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary and the City Bird Sanctuary, violating environmental regulations.
What projects are involved in the allegations?
The projects involved are Berkeley Square, developed by Berkeley Realtech Ltd (now known as RSA Motors Pvt Ltd), and Godrej Eternia, developed by Godrej Estate Developers.
What is the likely impact of the FIR on the companies?
The FIR is likely to have significant legal and reputational implications for both companies. They may face legal repercussions and be required to address the environmental damage caused by their projects.
How are the local communities and environmental advocates responding to this?
Local communities and environmental advocates have long raised concerns about the potential impact of developments in eco-sensitive zones. They view the CBI's action as a positive step towards ensuring environmental protection.
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