Order of the National Green Tribunal regarding illegal groundwater extraction in Rohini, Delhi, 24/10/2019

Order of the National Green Tribunal in the matter of Arvee Enterprise Vs Govt. of NCT of Delhi dated 24/10/2019 regarding illegal groundwater extraction in Rohini, Delhi without permission from the concerned statutory authorities including the Municipal Corporation, the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) and the Delhi Development Authority (DDA).

The said groundwater extraction is said to be for commercial purpose for selling packaged drinking water. Report filed by the North Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) affirmed the illegal withdrawal of water. The Tribunal in its order of July 2, 2019 was critical of the concerned authorities in checking the illegalities and lack of action even after the order of the Tribunal six months back.

The order said that "illegal drawal of water must be taken seriously and if there is a collusion of the officers or inaction, they should also be required to pay the compensation for illegal benefit taken to uphold the rule of law.” Accordingly a further report was filed on October 7, 2019 to the effect that necessary remedial action has been taken.

The court expressed its satisfaction at the report and said that no further orders are necessary at this stage and disposed of the case.