The fight to preserve Rajasthan’s water treasures intensified as the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in Bhopal issued a stern directive to Bhilwara’s District Collector. Tasked with evicting encroachers from vital water bodies in Kotri tehsil, the order stems from a petition underscoring profound ecological threats.
Vishnu Kumar Vaishnav’s application detailed alarming encroachments on prominent ponds like Dharmo Talab and Fateh Sagar, aka Baba Talab. The bench of Justice Shiv Kumar Singh and Expert Member Ishwar Singh reviewed compelling evidence, including joint committee findings and official tehsil documents, confirming the breaches.
Central to the case is the ponds’ indispensable function in recharging aquifers and sustaining biodiversity. Encroachments not only violate environmental safeguards but also revenue protocols, endangering long-term regional sustainability.
Rajasthan’s legal team reported that enforcement under applicable laws has kicked off, recognizing the protected status of these water assets. Assurances were given for thorough legal recourse to restore them.
Prioritizing ecological imperatives, the NGT mandated instantaneous action for protection and clearance. It allowed two weeks for affected individuals to seek party status, contingent on advance document service.
Progress will be evaluated on February 25, 2026. As climate challenges loom, such interventions are pivotal in fortifying water bodies against human-induced perils, ensuring they endure for future generations.