Environment – NGT Orders Proper Sealing of Illegal Borewells in Delhi

Environment – The National Green Tribunal has instructed the Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Model Town to ensure that illegal borewells in parts of Delhi are sealed in a secure and permanent manner, setting a two-week deadline for compliance.

Tribunal Reviews Allegations of Unauthorized Borewells

The directive was issued on February 20 during a hearing on an execution plea concerning the alleged unlawful operation of borewells in Rohini and Shakti Nagar. The matter traces back to an application filed against the Delhi Pollution Control Committee and other concerned authorities, raising concerns over groundwater extraction in residential areas.

Earlier, on January 28, 2025, the Tribunal had disposed of the main petition with instructions that any pending action should be addressed promptly by the concerned Sub-Divisional Magistrate. The applicant had been granted permission to submit a detailed representation, and the SDM was advised to take necessary steps preferably within four weeks.

Fresh Compliance Report Submitted

At the latest hearing, counsel representing the SDM, Model Town, informed the bench that several borewells cited in the complaint had already been sealed. A compliance report dated February 19 stated that the remaining borewells located at residential properties in Prem Nagar and Shakti Nagar were also sealed on various dates.

The submission suggested that the local administration had acted in response to the Tribunal’s earlier directions. However, the bench decided to examine the matter further after reviewing visual evidence placed on record.

Photographs Raise Concerns Over Sealing Process

Upon reviewing photographs submitted as part of the case file, the Tribunal observed that the sealing process appeared inadequate. The images indicated that the borewells might still be accessible and potentially operational, despite being officially marked as sealed.

The bench noted that simply covering or superficially closing borewells would not prevent further extraction of groundwater. The Tribunal emphasized that proper enforcement required the removal of submersible pumps and the permanent closure of the borewells to eliminate the possibility of continued use.

Two-Week Deadline for Permanent Closure

Responding to the concerns raised by the bench, counsel for the SDM assured the Tribunal that corrective action would be taken. The administration committed to resealing the borewells in a thorough manner by removing installed submersible pumps and filling the structures with concrete to prevent any future operation.

The Tribunal accepted the assurance but issued a clear directive: the entire process must be completed within two weeks. Additionally, the SDM has been asked to submit a fresh compliance report within three weeks to confirm that the instructions have been fully implemented.

The matter has now been scheduled for further hearing on April 1, when the bench is expected to review the updated status report and assess whether the directions have been complied with satisfactorily.

Focus on Groundwater Protection

The case highlights ongoing concerns over unauthorized groundwater extraction in Delhi’s residential neighborhoods. Illegal borewells not only violate regulatory norms but also contribute to the depletion of groundwater resources in the national capital.

By insisting on concrete plugging and removal of pumping equipment, the Tribunal has reinforced the need for strict implementation of environmental safeguards. The upcoming hearing will determine whether local authorities have effectively carried out the mandated actions to ensure compliance and protect groundwater resources.