Encroachments in Azadpur: NGT notice to Delhi govt

A plea alleging encroachments leading to traffic congestion in Azadpur area here has prompted the National Green Tribunal to issue show cause notices to the Delhi government and others. A bench headed by Justice Jawad Rahim issued notices to the AAP government, North Delhi Municipal Corporation, Delhi Pollution Control Committee and others while seeking their replies in two weeks explaining why action has not been taken against the squatters. "In the meanwhile, we direct respondents to show cause why the order passed by Public Grievance Commission has not been complied and the present status of the factual position.

It shall be done along with filing counter to the main application. "In case report is not submitted, we will summon the officers for explanation," the bench said. The tribunal was hearing a plea by city residents Sushil Baheti and Ritesh Goel seeking removal of encroachments from Azadpur area here saying these were causing traffic congestion. The plea, filed through advocate Rahul Khurana, claimed that the issue raised by the applicants was dealt by the Public Grievances Commission of the Delhi government which directed Deputy Commissioner (Civil Lines Zone), North Delhi Municipal Corporation to remove encroachments on regular basis. "Vide the same order it was also directed SHO of Adarsh Nagar not to allow any unauthorised vendor once the area is cleared by the civic agency. It is pertinent to mention herein that the Grievances Commission observed that the issue of encroachment at the Azadpur area is a very chronic matter that needs to be resolved and advised to approach the tribunal for getting corrective orders to resolve the grievance," the plea said. The plea has also sought directions to the Delhi Pollution Control Committee to install ambient air quality monitoring station in the area.

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