Rajasthan’s environmental watchdog, the National Green Tribunal (NGT), has cracked down on illegal encroachments plaguing water bodies in Bhilwara’s Kotri tehsil. The Bhopal bench ordered the district administration to act swiftly under the law to reclaim and protect these critical reservoirs, following a petition that exposed rampant violations.
Petitioner Vishnu Kumar Vaishnav brought to light the dire state of Dharmo Talab and Baba Talab (Fateh Sagar), where large-scale encroachments have compromised their integrity. During the hearing before Justice Shiv Kumar Singh and Expert Member Ishwar Singh, evidence from joint committee reports and tehsildar records painted a stark picture of environmental degradation.
These water bodies, vital for groundwater replenishment and local ecosystems, have suffered due to illegal occupations, breaching key environmental and revenue regulations. Vaishnav urged immediate intervention to avert irreversible damage to the area’s water conservation framework.
The state counsel informed the bench that initial actions aligning with legal provisions are underway. Rajasthan affirmed its commitment to addressing the encroachments on protected sites, promising comprehensive resolution.
The NGT’s ruling is clear: protect water bodies at all costs, with no room for procrastination. The District Collector must implement all requisite measures pronto. Interested parties can intervene within a fortnight by filing applications with prior notice.
Next hearing set for February 25, 2026, will assess the administration’s follow-through. This case highlights the growing imperative to shield India’s water heritage from urban pressures and illegal developments.