NGT Halts Lucknow Riverfront Construction

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued an interim order prohibiting any construction along the Gomti river in Lucknow that contravenes the 2016 River Ganga (Rejuvenation, Protection and Management) Authorities Order. This directive comes in response to a plea alleging that the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) has been undertaking projects within the river's floodplain without mandatory approvals.

The NGT's bench has instructed that no construction should occur on the riverbank or active floodplain of the Gomti, a tributary of the Ganga. The tribunal has also issued notices to the LDA and other respondents, requesting their replies within four weeks. The case is scheduled for further hearing on August 25.

An environmentalist and advocate, Alok Singh, filed the application, claiming the LDA is constructing embankments, a four-lane road, and high-rise buildings within the riverbed and floodplain. Singh emphasized that the 2016 order, applicable to the Ganga and its tributaries, designates riverbanks and active floodplains as construction-free zones to prevent pollution and preserve groundwater recharge.

Legal counsel for state authorities confirmed that no construction violating the 2016 order would be permitted. The NGT, taking note of this, reinforced its interim measure, ensuring that work violating the specified order is halted. The 2016 order mandates prior approval from the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) for various structures on the Ganga and its tributaries.