NGT Questions DDA’s Approval For Sewer Lines In Unauthorized Colonies On Yamuna Floodplain

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has raised concerns over the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) permitting the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) to lay sewer lines in four unauthorized colonies situated in the ‘O’ zone of the Yamuna floodplain.

90 Unauthorized Colonies in ‘O’ Zone

During a recent hearing, a bench led by NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, along with Justice Sudhir Agarwal and member Afroz Ahmed, questioned whether such permissions encourage settlement in unauthorized colonies. According to DDA’s submission, there are 90 unauthorized colonies in the ‘O’ zone, which is a sensitive area due to its proximity to the Yamuna River.

Sewer Lines in Flood-Sensitive Areas

The bench highlighted that the DDA issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to the DJB for laying sewer lines in four unauthorized colonies. These colonies include New Aruna Nagar (Majnu Ka Tila), Bhagat Singh Park Extension in Sirsapur village, Gadhi Village in Mandu, and Old Village Usmanpur on Teesra Pushta Dhaalan Road. The NGT questioned whether the decision to lay infrastructure, such as sewer lines, in these areas encourages further unauthorized settlement in flood-prone zones.

Concerns Over Public Spending

The NGT bench also raised concerns about the allocation of public funds to projects in unauthorized areas. The tribunal questioned the long-term viability of such initiatives, noting that any unauthorized constructions would eventually have to be removed from the ‘O’ zone, which is protected due to its flood sensitivity.

DDA and DJB’s Lack of Response

The DDA’s legal representative requested more time to provide a detailed response to the tribunal’s concerns. Additionally, the NGT pointed out that the DJB had not yet responded to its notice regarding the issue. The tribunal has now directed the Chief Executive Officer of DJB to be present virtually during the next hearing, which is scheduled for December 11.

The NGT’s concerns highlight the ongoing challenges in managing urban development and environmental preservation in sensitive areas like the Yamuna floodplain.