Authorities directed to address encroachments, environmental protection measures, and floodplain demarcation along the Ganga River.
In a significant move to protect the River Ganga and its floodplains, the Supreme Court of India has directed concerned authorities to present a detailed report on the removal of encroachments, the implementation of environmental protection measures, and the current status of floodplain demarcation. The directive comes in response to a civil appeal by Ashok Kumar Sinha against the dismissal of his original application by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices J.B. Pardiwala and K.V. Viswanathan, emphasized the need for stringent measures to protect the ecological sanctity of the Ganga, which is plagued by illegal encroachments along its banks. The Court has sought a comprehensive status report from the Union of India and the State of Bihar, specifically targeting areas from Digha Ghat to Nauzar Ghat where encroachments have been rampant.
During the proceedings, it was revealed that out of 213 identified encroachments, only 58 have been demolished so far, with the remaining hindered by interim orders from various courts. The Court expressed concern over the delay and instructed the authorities to expedite the process while ensuring environmental sustainability and the protection of aquatic life, including freshwater dolphins in certain areas.
The Court also took cognizance of the widespread use of plastic waste, which poses a significant threat to the river’s ecosystem. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change was tasked with addressing these environmental concerns, in alignment with the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 and its subsequent amendments.
Highlighting the principles outlined in the October 2016 notification under the Environmental Protection Act, the Court urged for effective implementation of measures to rejuvenate, protect, and manage the Ganga River. The notification mandates maintaining the ecological flow of the river and preventing environmental pollution.
The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for April 23, 2026, urging all involved states, including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Bihar, and others, to file their reports on the status of encroachments and floodplain demarcation. The Court's decision underscores the ongoing commitment to preserve one of India’s most sacred and vital rivers.
Statutory provision(s): Environmental Protection Act, 1986; Bihar Public Land Encroachment Act, 1956
Ashok Kumar Sinha v. Union of India, (SC) : Law Finder Doc id # 2866141
