NGT Orders 50-Meter Construction Ban Around Shahpura Lake; Action within 3 Months

NGT Mandates No-Construction Zone Around Shahpura Lake

In a significant move to free Bhopal's prestigious Shahpura Lake from encroachment and illegal construction, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued a crucial order. The NGT's Central Zonal Bench has directed that all illegal occupations and permanent constructions within 50 meters of the lake's Full Tank Level (FTL) must be removed within the next three months.

This order effectively declares a 'no-construction zone' extending 50 meters around Shahpura Lake. The NGT clarified that Shahpura Lake is a Notified Wetland, and therefore, no permanent or temporary construction will be permitted within the 50-meter radius of its FTL. The primary objective is to protect the lake's catchment area and its natural environment from unregulated construction activities that can adversely impact water flow, natural drainage, and the delicate ecological balance of the wetland.

Deadline Set for Removal of Illegal Constructions

The tribunal has granted the concerned administrative authorities a three-month deadline to complete this vital task. This means the administration must initiate action against identified illegal encroachments and constructions promptly and ensure their removal within the stipulated period. This order is considered a decisive step towards resolving long-standing disputes concerning encroachment and construction around Shahpura Lake.

SDM Kolar Tasked with Monitoring Compliance

The NGT has assigned the responsibility of monitoring this enforcement action to the SDM Kolar. The SDM has been directed to closely oversee the entire process and submit a progress report to the tribunal every 15 days. This arrangement ensures regular oversight of administrative actions and clarifies whether the process of removing illegal constructions is progressing as per the set timeline.

Next Hearing Scheduled for September 16; ATR Required

The next hearing in the case is scheduled for September 16, 2026. During this hearing, the concerned administration will be required to submit a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR) on the progress made so far. This report is expected to outline the identification of encroachments, details of structures removed, and the status of future action plans, placing significant pressure on the administration to effectively implement the NGT's order on the ground.

A Strong Message for Urban Wetland Conservation

Shahpura Lake is one of Bhopal's key urban water bodies. The NGT's decision not only targets the removal of illegal constructions but also sends a strong environmental message about the importance of conserving urban wetlands and water bodies. All eyes are now on how the administration will clear the 50-meter encroachment-free zone within the three-month deadline and what action report will be presented to the NGT during the September 16 hearing.