NGT issues notice to authorities, seeks response on Illegal construction, pollution in Pahuj river

Jhansi: Taking a serious cognisance of alleged encroachment, pollution, and obstruction of natural water channels in Pahuj river running through Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, the principal bench of National Green Tribunal (NGT), New Delhi, has issued notices to the concerned authorities seeking their responses in the matter which will be heard on Aug 17. A petition was filed by local residents and environmental activists.The case has been registered as Original Application (OA) No 323/2026 and was heard on Monday by a bench comprising Justice Prakash Shrivastava, chairperson, and Dr Afroz Ahmad, expert member. The petition was filed by activist Narendra Kushwaha in person through video conferencing.According to the petition, the Pahuja, referred to as ‘Pushpavati’ in ancient texts, is a major tributary of Sindh river and plays a crucial role in maintaining water security, groundwater recharge, and ecological balance in the drought-prone Bundelkhand region. Originating near Sujawani village in Madhya Pradesh’s Shivpuri district, the river flows for nearly 265 kilometres through parts of MP and UP covering a catchment area of around 3,648 square kilometres before merging in Sindh near Deori village of Jalaun district.The petitioner alleged that large-scale concrete construction work is being carried out illegally within the riverbed and floodplain areas near Unao in Datia district of MP. They claimed that such activities are obstructing the river’s natural flow and threatening its ecological system.Serious allegations were also made regarding encroachments and illegal constructions on natural drains and feeder channels recorded as ‘Nala’ in revenue records in areas including Unao and Bhander in Datia, as well as Lahargird, Nayagaon, Simardha, Pohra, Dhamna, Pandokhar, and Nadigaon villages in Jhansi and Jalaun districts of UP.The petition further stated that these natural drains and feeder channels are essential for rainwater drainage, groundwater recharge, and maintaining environmental balance. However, sewage and wastewater are allegedly being discharged into these channels, leading to obstruction of water flow, waterlogging, and direct contamination of the Pahuj River. The applicants argued that such pollution is severely affecting the river’s water quality and aquatic ecosystem.Highlighting the religious and cultural importance of the river, the petitioners informed the Tribunal that the Pahuj river at Unao Balaji Dham situated on the MP-UP border holds deep spiritual significance. Devotees traditionally bath in the river before offering prayers and water to Lord Surya Balaji.According to local beliefs, the river water possesses medicinal properties beneficial for treating skin ailments. The petition contended that illegal construction and interference with the natural flow of the river are damaging not only the environment but also the region’s centuries-old religious and cultural heritage.During the hearing, photographs showing alleged illegal construction activities and pollution in the riverbed were presented before the Tribunal. Taking note of the concerns raised, the NGT directed the respondents to file their replies and affidavits at least a week before the next hearing.