NGT Issues Directives for Urgent De-silting of South Delhi Drain

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued directives to the relevant authorities, emphasizing the regular de-silting of both open and covered sections of a drain in South Delhi.

This measure aims to curb the emission of putrid odors and noxious gases that have been causing inconvenience to residents.

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) are required to furnish additional reports, as per the tribunal’s instructions.

The tribunal was hearing a case brought forward by a residents’ welfare association concerning a partially open stormwater drain in the Greater Kailash-1 area. Allegedly, the drain is releasing toxic and foul gases, leading to health concerns for residents.

According to the MCD’s report, the drain’s total length is approximately 945 meters, with 300 meters being open. However, despite some de-silting operations, the open area still contains silt and emits a foul smell, with no noticeable improvement reported by the residents.

In a recent order, the bench, led by National Green Tribunal Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and comprising Judicial Member Justice Sudhir Agarwal and Expert Member A Senthil Vel, acknowledged the DJB’s report.

The report indicated multiple points where sewage enters the drain, with plans to address six of these points by March and sewage from Mehrauli by June 2025.

Until the DJB takes proposed actions, the tribunal suggested that the MCD explore increasing the number of vents in the covered area of the drain.

The authorities have also been directed to consistently de-silt both open and covered sections, providing an action taken report.

The tribunal further instructed the DJB to disclose information about the Okhla Sewage Treatment Plant’s capacity, the volume of diverted sewage, and whether the plant can adequately treat the sewage.

Addressing concerns about the purpose of creating four channels in the drain, the tribunal sought a report from the MCD. The matter is scheduled for further proceedings on December 22.