Aravali Hills: Construction Continues Despite NGT Orders

Fresh construction activity is actively ongoing within Ansal Aravali Retreat in Gurgaon's protected Aravali hills, despite numerous previous directives from the National Green Tribunal (NGT). A recent site visit on August 5, 2026, revealed over two dozen active construction sites within the area, which is designated as 'gair mumkin pahar' and protected under both the Punjab Land Preservation Act and the Union environment ministry's Aravali Notification.

Observational findings include ongoing work on farmhouses, boundary walls, and the levelling of land, with construction materials readily visible. This persistent development occurs while the NGT continues to hear a suo motu case initiated following a previous report on demolition and reconstruction cycles within the area. The tribunal has previously reprimanded the Union ministry of environment for non-compliance and ordered the establishment of monitoring committees by Haryana and Rajasthan governments.

Past enforcement actions, such as demolitions and show-cause notices issued to farmhouse owners, have failed to curb the illegal construction. An estimated 500 illegal farmhouses are believed to exist on Aravali land in Gurgaon. Environmentalists express concern over the implementation of NGT's orders, attributing the continued construction to delayed action by the district administration.