SC Slams UP Govt Over Ghaziabad STP Land Encroachments

The Supreme Court has issued a strong directive to the Uttar Pradesh government concerning a sewage treatment plant (STP) project in Khoda, Ghaziabad. The court ordered the state to ensure the land allocated for the 66 million litres per day (MLD) STP is free from encroachments, emphasizing the need for swift project completion.

The bench, comprising Justices Manoj Misra and Manmohan, noted that the affidavit filed by the state government failed to provide a clear timeline for the STP's establishment by the Uttar Pradesh Jal Nigam. The court also questioned the justification for claims of a road over the land, which had been officially earmarked and handed over for the project.

This directive was issued during the hearing of civil appeals filed by the New Okhla Industrial Development Authority (Noida) against the State of Uttar Pradesh. The land, measuring 16,000 sqm and purchased from the Noida authority, was transferred to UP Jal Nigam (Urban) for the plant's construction.

While an affidavit indicated a dispute over a road demand by residents during land demarcation, which the district administration is resolving, the court found the timeline information insufficient. Consequently, the court mandated a fresh affidavit detailing the construction timeframe and stressed the importance of clearing all encroachments to expedite the STP's setup.

The matter is scheduled for further hearing on March 19, 2026. Separately, a respondent was permitted to file an affidavit on measures to prevent wastewater discharge into the Yamuna river, highlighting ongoing concerns about untreated sewage entering waterways.