The Delhi High Court on Thursday has directed the Delhi Development Authority to install fencing along the Yamuna river flood plains after removing existing encroachments.
This measure aims to prevent any future illegal construction on the flood plains. The court’s order followed a petition concerning an allegedly unauthorized dargah and graveyard situated near the Signature Bridge.
Acting Chief Justice Manmohan’s bench, which had earlier called for the removal of all illegal structures along the riverbank, has now given the DDA six weeks to resolve the petitioner’s issues. However, the court rejected the proposal to establish a special task force to handle illegal constructions, citing concerns about potential corruption. Instead, it recommended employing technology for better monitoring.
The court emphasized that the DDA’s Vice Chairman must ensure the Yamuna floodplain is properly fenced to prevent further encroachments. This directive is part of a series of similar orders issued in recent months, including those related to construction near Shaheen Bagh and addressing waterlogging issues in Delhi. The court continues to stress the importance of green development and scientifically sound dredging of the riverbanks.
