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The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to inspect Noida's Okhla Bird Sanctuary for unauthorised construction following a petition alleging illegal activities, including permanent structures by the divisional forest officer. While NOIDA confirmed that a dismantled road project was discontinued, the tribunal ordered a detailed investigation to verify any ongoing violations. The MoEFCC representative must submit a report within eight weeks. This directive underscores the NGT's commitment to preserving ecologically sensitive areas like the sanctuary, a critical habitat for migratory birds, ensuring accountability and strict adherence to environmental protections.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has instructed a representative from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to inspect Noida's Okhla Bird Sanctuary and verify if any unauthorised construction has taken place within its premises. This decision follows a petition that raised concerns over illegal construction activities inside the sanctuary, which is situated on the floodplain of the Yamuna River. The petition alleged that the divisional forest officer (DFO) had been involved in building permanent, unauthorised structures, potentially threatening the sanctuary's delicate ecosystem. Advertisement
According to a report by PTI, earlier this week, a bench of the NGT, led by Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and expert member A. Senthil Vel, reviewed a submission from the New Okhla Industrial Development Authority (NOIDA). The authority confirmed that a road project had been initiated inside the sanctuary but clarified that it had been discontinued and dismantled after concerns were raised. NOIDA's counsel further stated that no impermissible permanent structures remained inside the sanctuary.
Despite these claims, the tribunal decided to proceed with a detailed inspection to ascertain whether any illegal construction activities were still ongoing. The MoEFCC representative has been instructed to carry out the inspection and submit a comprehensive report within eight weeks.
The NGT's directive emphasizes the critical need for vigilance in protecting ecologically sensitive areas like the Okhla Bird Sanctuary, which serves as an important habitat for various bird species, including migratory birds. The tribunal's decision to appoint an independent party to inspect the sanctuary reflects its commitment to ensuring that no construction activities compromise the area's legal and environmental status. The outcome of the inspection will be crucial in determining any further actions necessary to safeguard the sanctuary's biodiversity.
The NGT's directive highlights the importance of preserving protected areas like the Okhla Bird Sanctuary from encroachments and unauthorised developments. By mandating a thorough inspection, the tribunal aims to ensure accountability and safeguard the sanctuary's ecological balance. This move underscores the critical role of regulatory bodies in enforcing environmental protections and addressing allegations promptly.
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