What are the NGT's concerns about the Buddha Nullah construction?

The NGT is concerned that retaining walls disrupt the natural flow, reduce the drain's width, and increase risks of sewage overflow and waterborne diseases.

Why are Ludhiana residents protesting the Buddha Nullah work?

Residents protest ongoing construction, alleging it violates NGT bans, narrows the drain, and that dumped silt impedes water flow.

What action has the NGT taken regarding Buddha Nullah?

The NGT ordered a halt to fresh construction pending a report from the deputy commissioner and has cautioned against disrupting the drain's natural flow.

Home / Environment / Buddha Nullah: Wall Construction Defies NGT Orders

Buddha Nullah: Wall Construction Defies NGT Orders

4 Jan

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Summary

Construction of a retaining wall violates NGT orders for Buddha Nullah.
Residents claim dumped silt reduces drain's water-carrying capacity.
NGT ordered a halt to construction pending a deputy commissioner's report.

Buddha Nullah: Wall Construction Defies NGT Orders

Residents near Ludhiana's Buddha Nullah are raising alarms over ongoing retaining wall construction, asserting it breaches National Green Tribunal (NGT) directives. These orders, issued in July 2025, explicitly prohibit permanent structures within the water channel to prevent disruption to natural flow and reduce its width. Activists claim that despite this ban, construction activities have persisted near New Madhopuri and Shivpuri.

Concerns are mounting regarding the management of desilted soil, with locals alleging it's dumped back into the nullah, significantly diminishing its water-carrying capacity. This practice, coupled with the construction, could exacerbate flooding risks during heavy rainfall. The NGT had previously warned of increased waterborne disease risks due to potential sewage and effluent overflows.

Following resident complaints, the NGT formed a committee, with the Ludhiana deputy commissioner tasked to submit a report, and issued a stay on fresh construction. Despite this, residents report continued work. Municipal Commissioner Aaditya Dachalwal stated he has ordered an inquiry and ensured compliance with NGT directions, yet locals question the persistence of construction and unaddressed silt issues.