Is NOIDA and GNIDA Ignoring Illegal Constructions?
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Synopsis
The NGT's scrutiny of NOIDA and GNIDA reveals alarming illegal construction activities in Noida and Greater Noida, raising severe concerns about environmental compliance. With critical hearings scheduled, the ramifications could reshape the future of urban development in the region.
Key Takeaways
- NGT questions NOIDA and GNIDA's compliance with environmental regulations.
- Serious allegations of illegal constructions are under scrutiny.
- Petition highlights lack of necessary clearances for ongoing projects.
- NGT demands detailed affidavits from involved authorities.
- Next hearing is crucial for urban development in the region.
New Delhi, July 31 (NationPress) The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has questioned the New Okhla Industrial Development Authority (NOIDA) and the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA) about the rampant illegal constructions in Noida and Greater Noida, allegedly conducted in breach of environmental regulations.
A bench led by Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, along with expert members Dr. A. Senthil Vel and Dr. Afroz Ahmad, was reviewing an original application submitted by BJP leader and former municipal corporator Rajendra Tyagi. The application claims that extensive residential and commercial constructions are taking place without the essential environmental clearances (EC), valid consent to establish (CTE), and consent to operate (CTO).
The petition, presented through advocate Akash Vashishtha, also expressed concerns regarding illegal borewells and the lack of adequate sewerage systems in various locations.
During the proceedings, the green tribunal expressed strong disapproval of NOIDA's affidavit submitted on March 26, which vaguely asserted that actions had been taken against offenders but failed to provide specific details about the individuals, projects, properties, and locations involved.
Moreover, the Justice Shrivastava-led Bench criticized NOIDA for presenting outdated photographic evidence—some as old as November 2022—before the filing of the application.
“Consequently, we find that NOIDA has not provided a clear overview of the illegal constructions occurring in violation of environmental regulations and the actions taken against them,” the NGT order stated.
In light of the tribunal's reprimand, the counsels representing NOIDA, GNIDA, the District Magistrate of Gautam Budh Nagar, and the District Ground Water Management Council requested additional time to submit comprehensive affidavits detailing the actions taken against illegal structures.
The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) also sought three weeks to conduct thorough inspections and report on projects contravening environmental standards.
Referring to geo-tagged photographs presented during the hearing, the NGT provisionally concluded that the images supported claims of ongoing constructions lacking the necessary approvals.
Allowing time for all involved authorities, the green tribunal instructed them to file detailed affidavits with specific particulars and supporting documents.
The case is scheduled for the next hearing on October 8.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the NGT's commitment to upholding environmental standards. The ongoing scrutiny of NOIDA and GNIDA highlights the need for stringent compliance with regulations to protect our ecosystem while ensuring responsible urban development.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the NGT's inquiry into NOIDA and GNIDA?
The NGT's inquiry was initiated by a petition from BJP leader Rajendra Tyagi, highlighting widespread illegal constructions in violation of environmental norms.
What specific violations are being reported?
The reported violations include lack of environmental clearances, unauthorized constructions, illegal borewells, and inadequate sewerage systems.
What actions have NOIDA and GNIDA claimed to have taken?
NOIDA has submitted an affidavit claiming actions against violators but failed to provide detailed information about those actions.
When is the next hearing scheduled?
The next hearing regarding this matter is set for October 8.
What are the implications of these findings?
The findings could lead to stricter regulations and oversight on urban development practices in the region.
