NGT Orders Bio-Fencing for South West Delhi Village Pond to Prevent Degradation
The National Green Tribunal has directed authorities to install bio-fencing by planting shrubs and trees instead of constructing a concrete structure around a village pond in south west Delhi. The directive was issued during the hearing of a matter regarding encroachment around the water body, after the tribunal noted that concrete boundary walls could obstruct the natural flow of rainwater and accelerate the degradation of the pond.
The tribunal acknowledged that a section of the concrete boundary wall had already been constructed under an approved budget prior to the ruling. For the remaining stretch of the perimeter, the green panel ordered authorities to examine bio-fencing and carry out plantation work during the ongoing monsoon season. The tribunal specified that these plantation efforts must be undertaken with the involvement of the forest authority.
To restore and safeguard the south west Delhi water body, the tribunal mandated regular cleaning operations at the pond and ordered strict steps to prevent the dumping of solid waste. Authorities were also instructed to erect warning boards around the area. In addition, the panel required officials to submit a status report outlining the specific measures being implemented to stop untreated sewage from entering the pond.
On the issue of illegal occupation around the village pond, the tribunal emphasized that all encroachments must be removed strictly through due process of law. Authorities were ordered to prepare a list of encroachments and initiate eviction proceedings accordingly. The National Green Tribunal has scheduled the next hearing for this matter on September 8, 2026.
