Order of the National Green Tribunal in the matter of Mahesh Chandra Saxena Vs Govt. of NCT of Delhi & Others dated 02/11/2020.

This application seeks injunction against construction of drains in place of sewer lines at Chhatarpur Enclave, New Delhi. It is stated that there are 1700 unauthorised colonies in Delhi wherein the drains, septic tanks and soak pits are constructed. This is a source of pollution of ground water.

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Rain water harvesting systems were to be constructed for which directions have been issued by the NGT but it is not being done, the application filed by Mahesh Chandra Saxena said. The result is that rain water is mixing in the waste water.

Chhatapur Enclave colony is a big colony. Delhi Government has started construction of drains instead of providing for pipelines for collection of sewage. Drinking water pipelines are passing through the drains. On account of open drains, there are bacteria and mosquitoes and sometimes sewage enters the houses. Waste water from septic tanks is being discharged into the groundwater.

The NGT directed the Integrated Drain Management Cell (IDMC) set up under the Chief Secretary, Delhi to look into the matter.