NGT directs DJB to prevent illegal extraction of groundwater

The National Green Tribunal directed Delhi Jal Board (DJB) on Thursday to prevent illegal extraction of groundwater for commercial purposes and seal unauthorised borewells as also recover compensation from those who have operated them.

A bench headed by NGT Chairperson justice Adarsh Kumar Goel and Justice Sheo Kumar Singh, in a hearing through video conferencing, also asked the DJB to assess damage to the environment.

"In view of illegal operation of borewells, severely affecting the groundwater level, in Delhi, the DJB must expeditiously take remedial action of closing the borewells and also assessing and recovery of compensation from the persons who have operated such borewells, in coordination with other concerned authorities, following due process of law."

The tribunal passed the order after perusing a report from Deputy Commissioner, South and DJB on a plea filed by city resident Nand Kumar alleging illegal extraction of ground water at Mayapuri for commercial purposes.

As per .