The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has identified encroachment around a pond in Jaffarpur Kalan village in southwest Delhi during an inspection conducted earlier this month. In its report submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), the DPCC stated that wastewater from kitchens and bathrooms of nearby residential houses, excluding sewage, was being discharged directly into the pond through small drains from all sides without any treatment. This has resulted in water stagnation and mosquito breeding in the area.
DPCC Directs DJB and DDA to Take Action
The DPCC has directed the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) and the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to take appropriate action in the matter. The tribunal is currently hearing a petition filed by a local resident named Jitendra, who alleged pollution and encroachment of the village pond. The plea also claimed that sewage and garbage were being dumped into the waterbody, and that mud was being illegally discharged into it.
Inspection Findings
Following the NGT's directions, DPCC officials conducted a site inspection on May 12 and reported that the pond covers an area of approximately 500 square metres. According to locals, the pond has existed for a long time. However, parts of its surrounding area have reportedly been encroached upon due to the construction of residential houses by nearby inhabitants.
The report further stated that the pond located inside the village is connected through an underground pipeline to another waterbody situated outside the village at a distance of 300 metres. Whenever the connecting underground line gets clogged, the water level in the village rises significantly. Locals reported that during the monsoon season, the pond overflows, and water reaches nearby residential houses, causing inconvenience and potential health risks to the surrounding population.
The DPCC has asked the DJB and DDA to submit an action taken report in the matter. The NGT is expected to hear the case next month.
