The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) has halted construction on four Noida residential projects-Ascon Pride Villa, Purushottam Estate, Dwarika City, and Sahara Enclave�due to missing environmental clearances, affecting over 4,000 homebuyers. Triggered by an NGT complaint, inspections revealed unauthorized construction across 18 villages in Noida and 55 in Greater Noida. Builders also lacked layout approvals, jeopardizing buyers' investments. The UPPCB has issued closure orders and plans further inspections, including checks for illegal borewells. The situation underscores the urgent need for stricter regulatory enforcement and sustainable development practices in rapidly urbanizing regions.
Over 4,000 homebuyers in Noida are facing uncertainty as the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) has recommended an immediate halt to construction on four residential projects. This decision comes after inspections revealed that the builders had not obtained the necessary environmental clearances. The affected projects include Ascon Pride Villa, Purushottam Estate, Dwarika City, and Sahara Enclave, which collectively cover more than 20,000 square meters.
The inspections were prompted by a complaint filed with the National Green Tribunal (NGT) by Rajendra Tyagi, a Ghaziabad resident. Tyagi's petition highlighted illegal construction activities occurring in 18 villages in Noida and over 55 villages in Greater Noida. He noted that approximately 150,000 villas have either been constructed or are underway in these areas, along with the emergence of more than 1,100 colonies. This situation raises significant concerns about unregulated development and its impact on the environment.
In November, the UPPCB issued show-cause notices to five projects in response to these allegations. Only one project, located in Surajpur Site C, was able to provide the necessary No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the pollution control board. Following this, the UPPCB escalated the matter to its headquarters in Lucknow, leading to the recommendation for shutting down the four projects. Ascon Pride Villa has already received a closure order, while further action is pending for the other sites.
In addition to the lack of environmental clearances, UPPCB officials have reported that the builders sold plots, villas, and flats without obtaining layout approvals. This not only raises concerns about compliance with local regulations but also places the homebuyers in a precarious position. Many of these buyers invested their savings with the expectation of moving into their new homes, only to find their dreams jeopardized by regulatory issues.
Moreover, the groundwater department is planning to conduct inspections for unauthorized borewells on these sites. The widespread nature of these unauthorized constructions, particularly in areas under the Yamuna Expressway Authority, indicates a larger problem of illegal building practices in the region. This situation underscores the need for stricter enforcement of environmental regulations and better oversight of construction activities.
As the situation unfolds, affected homebuyers are left seeking clarity on their investments and the future of their properties. The UPPCB's actions highlight the ongoing struggle between development and environmental protection in rapidly urbanizing areas like Noida. Community leaders and environmental activists are calling for more stringent measures to ensure compliance with environmental standards, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development practices to protect local ecosystems.
In conclusion, the halt of these construction projects not only impacts thousands of homebuyers but also raises critical questions about the balance between development and environmental responsibility. As authorities continue to address these issues, it is essential for stakeholders to work together to promote sustainable practices that benefit both the community and the environment.
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
