NGT Disposes Application In Gandhi Sagar Talab (bhilwara) Sewage Diversion Matter; Directs Timely Completion Of Ongoing Project
LIVELAW NEWS NETWORK
12 Dec 2025 7:08 PM IST
The National Green Tribunal (NGT), Central Zone Bench, Bhopal, has disposed of Original Application No. 220/2024(CZ) filed by Babulal Jajoo concerning the inflow of untreated sewage into Gandhi Sagar Talab, Bhilwara, Rajasthan.
Background of the Case
The Applicant alleged that untreated domestic sewage was freely entering the Gandhi Sagar Lake, causing pollution and environmental degradation. The Tribunal had earlier (27.10.2025) directed the Municipal Corporation, Bhilwara (Respondent No. 3) to file its detailed response.
Response of the Municipal Corporation, Bhilwara
In its reply dated 24.10.2025, the Municipal Corporation submitted that:
A comprehensive assessment of the sewage discharge system has been completed.
A full-fledged wastewater nalla construction project has been initiated to intercept, divert, and channel untreated sewage entering the lake.
A work order has been issued to Shri Mohammad Arif (Udaipur).
Project commencement date: 23.05.2025
Scheduled completion: 22.05.2026
Commissioning target: 31.03.2026 (ahead of full completion date)
The project is aimed at achieving complete elimination of untreated sewage discharge into Gandhi Sagar Talab.
Applicant's Objection
The Applicant's counsel submitted that although he has no objection to the ongoing project, some temporary/alternative arrangements should be made to divert untreated sewage during the interim period.
Tribunal's Observation
The Tribunal rejected this request, observing that:
A scientifically designed and full-scale permanent solution is already underway.
The project is expected to be commissioned by 31.03.2026, which is a reasonable timeline.
Issuing directions for temporary diversion is unnecessary.
Respondents must ensure timely completion of the project and manage untreated sewage appropriately during this period.