Ludhiana Civic Panel Moves NGT Over Green Belt Order Non-Compliance
The Public Action Committee (PAC) has taken a decisive step by approaching the National Green Tribunal (NGT) with an execution application. This action targets the Joint Committee and other authorities for their alleged failure to comply with the Tribunal's directives aimed at safeguarding Ludhiana's green belts and public parks.
Allegations of Rampant Violations
PAC members Er Kapil Arora and Jaskirat Singh have highlighted that the issue stems from an original application submitted in 2025. This application raised serious concerns over repeated encroachments and illegal constructions in designated green belt areas across the city.
Despite clear orders from the NGT, authorities have permitted widespread violations in key locations. These include areas along Old GT Road near Buddha Dariya, adjoining the Sarabha Nagar Zone D Office, and in Model Town Extension.
Background of NGT Directives
On July 31, 2025, the NGT issued specific directions to a joint committee. This committee comprised officials from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the Punjab Pollution Control Board, and the District Magistrate of Ludhiana. Their mandate was to verify earmarked green spaces, remove any encroachments, and submit a detailed action-taken report within a three-month timeframe.
However, PAC members Kuldeep Singh Khaira and Gurpreet Singh have pointed out that more than six months have elapsed without any compliance. "We sent repeated reminders, including WhatsApp messages and emails, but the silence from the authorities is deafening," remarked Khaira, underscoring the lack of response.
Escalation of Violations
Dr. Amandeep Singh Bains expressed concern that this inaction has emboldened further violations. "Shockingly, construction of a tehsil office has now commenced in the same green belt along Old GT Road. It is not just a breach of the NGT orders but also a violation of environmental laws, the Master Plan, and even Supreme Court directions," he stated.
The PAC has now formally filed an Execution Application of 2026. This application urges the Tribunal to order the demolition of illegal constructions and to recover public funds spent on these unlawful works from the responsible officials. "We have prayed that Ludhiana's green spaces be protected and accountability fixed on those who facilitated these violations," said Gurpreet.
Broader Implications and Criticism
The committee's failure to act, despite widespread media coverage in August 2025, has drawn sharp criticism from various civic groups. PAC members have emphasized that protecting green belts is not merely a legal obligation but a moral duty to future generations. "If judicial orders are ignored brazenly, what message does it send about governance and respect for the environment?" asked Arora, highlighting the broader implications for environmental governance in India.
This case underscores ongoing challenges in urban environmental management, where legal frameworks often clash with developmental pressures. The outcome of this execution application could set a significant precedent for green belt protection efforts across other Indian cities facing similar issues.
