Home / Environment / NGT Slams MCD Over Pond Encroachment in Delhi
NGT Slams MCD Over Pond Encroachment in Delhi
30 May
Summary
- Delhi pond encroached for sewage plant and garbage dump.
- Tribunal notes revenue records show land as traditional johad.
- Authorities given four weeks to explain water body construction.
Notices have been issued by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), Delhi Jal Board (DJB), and Delhi Development Authority (DDA). This action follows allegations of encroachment on a significant water body in north Delhi's Sannoth village.
The tribunal's attention was drawn by a resident's plea, asserting that a village pond had been taken over for constructions. Joint inspections confirmed the land is officially recorded as a johad, a traditional rainwater harvesting structure.
Recent developments include a non-functional sewage treatment plant (STP) at the southern edge and a garbage collection point at the eastern corner. The DJB stated the STP was built in December 2022 to enhance groundwater recharge and has since been transferred to the DDA.
The NGT has directed the respondent authorities to provide explanations within four weeks regarding the constructions on the water body and any potential legal violations. The case is slated for its next hearing on August 14.
