The Supreme Court has recently ordered the Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun, to carry out a tree census in the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ) to assess the region’s green cover and its impact on pollution control.

• About Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ):
• Purpose: A 10,400 sq. km trapezoidal-shaped area created to protect the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and Fatehpur Sikri (UNESCO World Heritage Sites) from air pollution.
• Establishment:Formed in 1996 by the Supreme Court of India to regulate pollution affecting the Taj Mahal.
• Supreme Court Directives:
• Industries in TTZ must switch from coal and coke to cleaner fuels like natural gas.
• Strict regulations on construction, vehicular emissions, and industrial pollutants in the region.
• Significance:
  • • Helps in reducing air pollution around historical monuments.
    • Plays a role in conserving cultural heritage from environmental damage.