NGT seeks explanation from authorities over encroachment on village pond

New Delhi: National Green Tribunal has issued notices to MCD and DJB over alleged encroachment on a waterbody in north Delhi’s Sannoth village, where a sewage treatment plant (STP) and a garbage collection point (dhalao) have been set up.

The tribunal was hearing a plea filed by a local about the alleged encroachment of the village pond. In its May 22 order, NGT noted that a joint inspection report filed by respondent authorities confirmed that the land is recorded as a johad in revenue records.

“The reply supports the allegation of the applicant that Khasra number 99, Khata number 668/685 in village Sannoth is a johad, and an STP has been constructed on the said land, and there is also a garbage collection point,” observed the bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and expert member Afroz Ahmad.

DJB told the tribunal that the project, completed on Dec 31, 2022, was intended to increase groundwater recharge through the use of treated effluent and prevent the discharge of untreated sewage. It further stated that the construction had been undertaken after obtaining permission from the DDA.

“In such a situation, the respondent authorities are directed to clarify as to how they have encroached upon a water body and raised a construction therein, and in this process, have they not violated the law?” said the bench.

The matter will be next heard on Aug 14.