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NGT Orders Immediate Removal of Encroachments from Bhilwara Water Bodies

The National Green Tribunal has directed the Bhilwara District Collector to take immediate legal action to protect water bodies and remove encroachments in Kotri tehsil. The order came in response to a petition highlighting large-scale encroachments and environmental violations affecting key water bodies like Dharmo Talab and Fateh Sagar. The state counsel acknowledged the issue and assured the Tribunal that lawful steps are being taken. The matter is scheduled for a compliance review hearing on February 25, 2026.

Key Points: NGT Directs Bhilwara to Clear Water Body Encroachments

  • NGT orders encroachment removal
  • Focus on Dharmo Talab & Fateh Sagar
  • Action directed to District Collector
  • Next hearing set for Feb 2026
2 min read

Rajasthan: NGT orders removal of encroachments from water bodies in Bhilwara

NGT orders Bhilwara District Collector to act against illegal encroachments on vital water bodies like Dharmo Talab and Fateh Sagar.

"immediately take all necessary steps in accordance with law to safeguard the water bodies - National Green Tribunal"

Jaipur, Feb 6

The National Green Tribunal, Central Zone Bench, Bhopal, has directed the District Collector of Bhilwara to take immediate action under the law to protect water bodies and remove encroachments in Kotri tehsil of Rajasthan's Bhilwara district.

The order was passed in Original Application No. 38/2025 (CZ), filed by petitioner Vishnu Kumar Vaishnav, and was heard by a Bench comprising Justice Sheo Kumar Singh, Judicial Member, and Ishwar Singh, Expert Member.

During the hearing, the applicant alleged large-scale encroachments and serious environmental violations affecting key water bodies in the area, including Dharmo Talab and Fateh Sagar, also known locally as Baba Talab.

The petitioner submitted that these water bodies, which play a crucial role in groundwater recharge and local ecology, have been subjected to illegal occupation and degradation.

The Tribunal was informed that joint committee reports and official records prepared by the Tehsildar clearly establish the existence of encroachments on the notified water bodies. These documents, the applicant argued, confirm violations of environmental norms and revenue laws, posing long-term risks to water conservation and ecological balance in the region.

Appearing on behalf of the State of Rajasthan, counsel submitted that the authorities have already initiated action in accordance with applicable revenue and environmental laws.

The state also acknowledged that the issue pertains to encroachments on protected water bodies and assured the Tribunal that lawful steps are being taken to address the matter.

Taking note of the submissions, the NGT directed the District Collector, Bhilwara, to immediately take all necessary steps in accordance with law to safeguard the water bodies and ensure the removal of encroachments.

The Tribunal emphasised that protection of water bodies is a matter of environmental urgency and cannot be delayed. At the same time, the Tribunal granted liberty to affected persons to file applications for impleadment within two weeks, subject to serving advance copies to the opposite parties.

The matter has been listed for further hearing on February 25, 2026, when the Tribunal will review compliance and progress made by the district administration.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
This is a welcome order, but I'll believe it when I see it. How many times have we seen such directives from courts and tribunals only for the administration to move at a snail's pace? The hearing is in 2026! That's a long time for "immediate" action. The delay itself is problematic.
R
Rahul R
As someone from a village near Bhilwara, I've seen these talabs shrink every year. People build right up to the edge. It's not just about law, it's about our survival. These are ancient water sources. Hope the removal is done respectfully but firmly.
S
Sarah B
Interesting to see the legal process here. The state acknowledging the issue is a good first step. Granting liberty for affected persons to be heard is crucial for fairness. The key will be balancing environmental urgency with due process. A tough task for the District Collector.
A
Aman W
Who allowed these encroachments in the first place? The revenue department officials must be held accountable. It's always a cycle: illegal occupation happens under their nose, then courts order removal, and taxpayers bear the cost of the operation. The system needs fixing from the root.
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Nidhi U
Protecting water bodies is non-negotiable, especially in a dry state like Rajasthan. This isn't just about Bhilwara; it's a template for action across the country. Hope other citizen groups take inspiration from Mr. Vaishnav. Jai Jal, Jai Jeevan! 💧

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