NGT Resolves Rohini Park Damage Case After Fines Paid

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has officially closed a case regarding environmental damage to a park in Rohini’s Sector 14, following the payment of pending fines by several involved agencies. The case stemmed from a plea lodged by local resident Birender Sangwan, who alleged that construction activities had led to dust pollution and damage to trees after the boundary wall of the park was breached.

In a ruling dated September 15, 2024, the NGT’s bench, which included judicial member Arun Kumar Tyagi and expert members Dr. A Senthil Vel and Dr. Afroz Ahmad, acknowledged that most of the responsible agencies had settled their environmental compensation obligations. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) paid ₹3 lakh for the damage inflicted on the park’s boundary wall during metro construction activities.

Additionally, the Public Works Department (PWD), which is constructing a forensic laboratory nearby, submitted ₹10,000 in costs to the NGT, along with an extra ₹1 lakh designated for environmental compensation. The NGT stated, “As per the order dated January 25, 2024, the environmental compensation of ₹1,00,000 was to be deposited with the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC). The Registrar General of this Tribunal is directed to take requisite action for the transfer of the amount of ₹1,00,000 deposited with the Registrar of this Tribunal through the above-mentioned demand draft to DPCC.”

While the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has yet to fulfill its financial obligations, a representative confirmed that the authority will deposit its share of ₹10,000 within one month. The DDA has not submitted any additional status report, but its counsel mentioned that the demolished walls have been reconstructed, and measures have been taken to restore the park and enhance its greenery.

The plea highlighted concerns about the broader environmental implications of the construction activities, noting that although no trees were found to have been felled, the damage to the boundary wall had significant environmental repercussions. The NGT emphasized that such actions could harm local ecosystems and called for responsible practices during construction to avoid similar issues in the future.

The NGT’s decision marks a significant step in addressing environmental concerns raised by local residents and reinforces the importance of compliance with environmental regulations by governmental and construction agencies.