Delhi High Court Orders Swift Agency Selection for Comprehensive Land Survey in Response to Unauthorized Constructions

The Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to expedite the selection of an agency to conduct a comprehensive land survey in the capital. This directive came in response to a petition addressing the issue of unauthorized constructions within the city, including those near historically significant monuments.

During the proceedings, the MCD counsel informed the court about a recent meeting between the MCD Commissioner and the DDA Vice Chairman. They agreed to conduct a thorough survey of their respective lands in Delhi to determine their status. It was also decided to conduct regular inspections every six months to monitor any changes.

The bench, comprising Acting Chief Justice Manmohan Singh and Justice Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora, emphasized the importance of including forest areas in the survey. They suggested that all relevant agencies should collaborate to map the entire city comprehensively.

The MCD counsel clarified that each agency is responsible for its own land, but the proposed survey methodology could be replicated by other land-owning entities. They outlined plans to utilize modern technologies such as satellite imagery, digital mapping, and drone surveys. Additionally, they proposed engaging the Survey of India to conduct the survey of MCD and DDA lands.

The court instructed both the MCD and the DDA to finalize the selection of the surveying agency and provide a clear timeline for completing the survey. The matter is scheduled to be reviewed in the next hearing on July 2nd.