Environmental Crisis Uncovered in Alamgir Village Ponds
A shocking environmental inspection report has exposed the severely degraded condition of five ponds in the historic village of Alamgir, Ludhiana, characterizing them as unfenced garbage dumping sites that present "serious health concerns" to the local population. The detailed assessment, carried out by court-appointed amicus curiae Virendra Singh on December 27, 2025, stems from a legal initiative launched by 75-year-old flour mill owner Charan Singh.
Legal Battle and Systematic Failures
In May 2023, Charan Singh filed a petition with the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to rescue his village from the "clutches of pollution." The subsequent report delivers a stark portrayal of administrative neglect, documenting choked sewage lines, illegal tree felling, and thousands of saplings left to perish without adequate water. The findings highlight a comprehensive failure in maintaining the village's essential water bodies.
Detailed Inspection Findings
The amicus curiae provided a thorough breakdown of the distressing conditions at each location:
- Ponds 1 & 2 (Dulay Road & Ravidas Dharam Shala): These sites have effectively transformed into solid waste dumping grounds. The report recorded a "pungent smell" and "choked sewage outlets" discharging directly into the water. Despite initial planting efforts, most saplings are "about to die" due to a complete lack of watering.
- Pond 3 (Bhai Naghaya Singh Hall): Investigators discovered that three mature trees had been illegally cut down. Although a filtration system with sump pits exists, the pits were found overflowing with waste, generating a hazardous environment near the local temple.
- Pond 4 (Village Road): Situated in a densely populated area, this pond is encircled by garbage and raw sewage discharge, creating an ideal breeding ground for diseases.
- Pond 5 (Govt Senior Secondary School): Noted as "cleaner" than the others, this pond is adjacent to a school playground where a nullah (drain) remains choked with solid waste, posing ongoing risks.
Health Risks and Official Warnings
"The ponds emit a foul smell, which can cause serious health concerns to the locals residing in the area. None of the sites were found to be fenced," stated the amicus curiae report. The National Green Tribunal has issued a strict directive, giving local authorities one month to clean up the sites and address all deficiencies highlighted in the report. An action taken report is due by mid-February, with the next hearing scheduled for February 26.
Required Remedial Actions
The tribunal emphasized that all remedial measures must comply with Supreme Court and NGT safety standards. Respondents are mandated to take immediate steps, including fencing the ponds, clearing accumulated garbage, and ensuring the survival of the remaining plantation. This enforcement aims to mitigate the environmental and public health threats.
The Resident's Determined Fight
Charan Singh's petition underscores a growing trend where rural residents are turning to the NGT to circumvent local government apathy. In his original complaint, the 75-year-old articulated that his sole objective is to secure a breathable atmosphere for the next generation of Alamgir, highlighting the community's desperation for actionable change.
