Can River Flow Blockage Go To NGT?

Answer:

Yes, river flow blockage can go to NGT if the blockage affects natural drainage, floodplain function, river ecology, aquatic life, public safety, or water quality. River flow can be blocked by illegal construction, bunds, temporary roads, mining ramps, dumping of debris, encroachments, solid waste, religious structures, illegal bridges, or unauthorized development on river land. Such blockage may increase flooding, waterlogging, erosion, stagnation, sewage accumulation, and ecological stress.

A proper NGT case should explain the cause of blockage and the environmental impact. The applicant should describe whether the river’s natural channel has narrowed, whether water is diverted, whether flood risk has increased, whether nearby habitations or agricultural land are affected, and whether any authority ignored complaints. Evidence may include photos, videos, maps, satellite images, flood records, local complaints, and inspection requests.

Authorities may include District Magistrate, Irrigation Department, Revenue Department, Municipal Corporation, Development Authority, Pollution Control Board, Police, and private violators. If the blockage relates to a project, the project proponent should also be added.

NGT can direct removal of obstruction, restoration of natural flow, inspection by a joint committee, compensation, and future monitoring. The NGT Act focuses on effective disposal of environmental protection cases and conservation of natural resources. Therefore, obstruction of natural river flow can become a strong NGT issue.