National Green Tribunal, Principal Bench, New Delhi: In an application raising grievance regarding encroachment on a historical water body which was constructed by a king named Chand and historically used for water sports, a 3-member bench of Prakash Shrivastava (Chairperson), Arun Kumar Tyagi, JJ., and Dr. Afroz Ahmad (Expert Member), acknowledged that the matter involves “substantial issue relating to compliance of environmental norms” and issued notice to the respondents with direction to file their response/reply.
In the instant matter, the applicant filed this Original Application raising a grievance regarding a historical water body measuring 84 Bighas (approximately 7 hectares) situated at Section A-10, Narela, Delhi. It was stated that the said water body was constructed by a king named Chand and historically used for water sports, thus possesses not just environmental but also heritage value.
The applicant relied upon revenue records and demanded to substantiate the existence and classification of the site as a water body. The applicant alleged that the water body has been encroached upon, and despite repeated representations and correspondences, no tangible steps have been initiated by the concerned authorities either for removal of encroachments or rejuvenation of the pond.
In support of this contention, the applicant placed on record a news report highlighting the ongoing degradation and administrative neglect. The applicant also made reference to official communications, a letter from the DDA to Director Planning concerning issuance of a drawing for beautification of the pond and another communication dated 13-07-2022 from the Member Secretary, Wetland Authority of Delhi, addressed to the Superintending Engineer (HCC-1)/Water Bodies, DDA, requesting revival and development of the pond along with submission of a progress report.
The NGT observed that the original application raises substantial issues relating to compliance of environmental norms, issued notice to the respondents and directed them to file their response/reply by way of affidavit through e-filing at least one week before the next date of hearing, 18-09-2025. The NGT further directed the applicant to serve all respondents and file an affidavit of service at least one week before the next date of hearing.
[Ram Chander Bhardwaj v. Govt. (NCT of Delhi), Original Application No. 246/2025, Decided on 19-05-2025]
Advocates who appeared in this case :
Mr. Sandeep Bhardwaj, Counsel for the Applicant