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NGT Orders Concrete Sealing of Illegal Delhi Borewells Within 2 Weeks

The National Green Tribunal has directed the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Model Town to ensure the proper sealing of illegal borewells in Delhi within two weeks. The order requires the removal of submersible pumps and permanent plugging of the borewells with concrete. This directive came after the Tribunal observed that previous sealing attempts, based on photographic evidence, were inadequate and allowed for potential continued operation. The SDM must file a compliance report within three weeks, with the next hearing scheduled for April 1.

Key Points: NGT Directs Proper Sealing of Illegal Borewells in Delhi

  • NGT orders proper sealing
  • Remove submersible pumps
  • Plug borewells with concrete
  • Two-week deadline for compliance
  • SDM to file report in three weeks
2 min read

NGT orders proper sealing of illegal borewells in Delhi within two weeks

NGT orders SDM Model Town to seal illegal borewells in Delhi by removing pumps and plugging with concrete within two weeks for compliance.

"the sealing did not appear to be proper - National Green Tribunal"

New Delhi, February 20

The National Green Tribunal has directed the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Model Town, to ensure proper sealing of illegal borewells in Delhi by removing submersible pumps and plugging the borewells with concrete within two weeks.

The direction was passed on February 20, while hearing an execution application filed in connection with the alleged illegal operation of borewells in Rohini and Shakti Nagar areas.

The case was originally filed against the Delhi Pollution Control Committee and other authorities.

On January 28, 2025, the Tribunal had disposed of the original application with directions that if any action was pending, the concerned SDM should look into the issue and take steps without unnecessary delay.

The applicant was permitted to submit a detailed representation, and the SDM was directed to act on it preferably within four weeks.

During the latest hearing, counsel for the SDM informed the Tribunal that several borewells mentioned in the complaint had already been sealed. A fresh report dated February 19 stated that the remaining borewells at various residential premises in Prem Nagar and Shakti Nagar were also sealed on different dates.

However, after examining photographs placed on record, the Tribunal observed that the sealing did not appear to be proper. The images suggested that the borewells could still be operated conveniently without removing the seals.

Taking note of this, counsel for the SDM, Model Town, assured the Tribunal that the borewells would be sealed again in a proper manner by removing the submersible pumps and permanently plugging them with concrete. The Tribunal directed that this exercise be completed within two weeks and asked the SDM to file a further compliance report within three weeks. The matter has been listed for further hearing on April 1.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
This is a classic case of government departments doing "haal-farzi" work. The photos showed the sealing was a joke! If they had done it properly the first time, they wouldn't need a second order from the Tribunal. Taxpayers' money wasted.
A
Aman W
While I support the order, I hope there's also a plan for those who genuinely depend on these borewells. In many colonies, the municipal water supply is so erratic. Solving that root cause is equally important.
S
Sarah B
Good step for environmental protection. The timeline of two weeks seems tight but necessary to prevent further damage. Monitoring and compliance will be key. Hope the April 1 hearing shows real progress.
V
Vikram M
The NGT is doing its job, but what about the corruption that allows these borewells to be installed illegally in the first place? Until that chain is broken, this will keep happening. Need to penalize the builders and officials involved.
K
Kavya N
As a resident near one of these areas, I've seen water tankers lining up every day. Sealing borewells is one part, but where will the water come from now? The government needs a holistic water management plan for the city.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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