Supreme Court Demands Report on Illegal Encroachments Along Ganga Banks
Synopsis
The Supreme Court has called for an extensive report on illegal encroachments along the Ganga, emphasizing the need for action across multiple states to protect this vital river. The apex court's order signals a serious commitment to addressing environmental concerns.
Key Takeaways
Supreme Court intervention highlights the urgency of environmental concerns.
Comprehensive report on encroachments demanded from all Ganga basin states.
Ongoing legal proceedings regarding floodplain encroachments.
Importance of the Ganga for millions underlined.
Next hearing set for April 23, 2026.
New Delhi, March 14 (NationPress) The Supreme Court has requested a detailed status report regarding unlawful constructions and encroachments along the banks and floodplains of the Ganga across various states. Notices have been issued to several states within the Ganga basin to aid the apex court in tackling this critical matter.
A Bench consisting of Justices J.B. Pardiwala and K.V. Viswanathan has directed the Union government, the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), and the states through which the Ganga flows to submit a comprehensive report about the current state of encroachments and the actions taken to eliminate them.
The appeal was brought forth by Ashok Kumar Sinha, contesting a 2020 ruling by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that rejected his claims about encroachments on the Ganga's floodplains in Patna.
During the proceedings, advocate Akash Vashishtha, representing the petitioner, informed the Supreme Court that in 2023, a total of 213 encroachments were detected along the stretch from Digha Ghat to Nauzar Ghat in Patna. Among these, 58 have been removed, leaving 145 structures still standing, partly due to interim orders from various courts.
Expressing concern over the rampant encroachments, the apex court noted that this issue extends beyond Bihar and necessitates a thorough investigation across all Ganga basin states, including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Haryana, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and the National Capital Territory of Delhi.
“We request a comprehensive report outlining the current status of encroachments in all states through which the Ganga flows,” stated the Bench led by Justice Pardiwala in their order.
The Supreme Court also instructed the authorities to clarify the actions taken to enforce the 2016 notification issued under the Environment (Protection) Act aimed at the rejuvenation, protection, and management of the Ganga. Among other details, the Bench sought information on the steps taken to implement the provisions of the notification, challenges faced by the authorities in enforcement, and proposed measures to keep riverbanks and floodplains free from encroachments.
“What actions does the Authority plan to take to protect the Ganga and ensure that its river plains and banks remain unencumbered by encroachments?” the order queried. The case is scheduled for further hearing on April 23, 2026, and will remain part-heard.
Point of View
It's evident that the Supreme Court's directive reflects a crucial step toward environmental protection and accountability. The encroachment issue requires immediate attention not just in Bihar but across all Ganga basin states. The river's health is vital for millions, and swift action is imperative.
NationPress
5 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Supreme Court's recent action regarding the Ganga?
The Supreme Court has sought a detailed report on illegal encroachments along the Ganga's banks from various states.
Which states are involved in this Supreme Court directive?
The involved states include Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Haryana, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Delhi.
What prompted this Supreme Court action?
The action was prompted by an appeal regarding encroachments on the Ganga's floodplains in Patna.
What are the next steps in this case?
The case is scheduled for further hearing on April 23, 2026.
Why is the Ganga's protection important?
The Ganga is crucial for the ecological balance, supporting millions of people and diverse wildlife.
