The Delhi High Court has issued a directive to the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) to ensure a consistent supply of fresh drinking water to the residents of Bhalswa resettlement colony, situated near a landfill. The bench, consisting of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Sanjeev Narula, has granted the DJB four weeks to submit a detailed status report on the matter.
The court was hearing a plea that sought to provide essential amenities, including sanitation, drinking water, healthcare, and education services to the inhabitants of Bhalswa resettlement colony. The area’s proximity to the landfill has left it polluted, impacting the living conditions of the residents.
During the hearing, the DJB’s counsel informed the court that the board ensures regular water supply to the colony and provides water tankers when pipeline supply is interrupted.
The high court has also given four weeks to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and other authorities to respond to the petition.
The plea highlights that the residents are forced to live with contaminated water and poor living conditions, leading to serious health issues and emotional distress. The Bhalswa resettlement colony was established in 2000-2002 to relocate people from 11 different areas in Delhi.
The petition emphasizes that resettlement is meant to improve the living conditions of the people, providing them with essential amenities. However, even after more than 20 years of resettlement, the residents continue to struggle with inadequate access to clean water, drainage, sanitation, and education.
The plea further alleges that the authorities have neglected their legal duty, resulting in several deaths, including that of an infant. The lack of proper education facilities for the children in the colony has also been highlighted in the petition.
