Unauthorised development along Hingonia dam, Bandi river: Panel

ACCORDING TO THE COMMITTEE, CANALS FROM THE DAM THAT SERVE BOOKNI, HINGONIA, KANSYA, AND RATAKHERA WERE ALSO AFFECTED

- Dinesh Bothra

JODHPUR: A joint committee formed on the directions of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) confirmed encroachments and environmental violations in the submergence and catchment areas of Hingonia dam and Bandi river in Jaipur district.

The committee submitted its report to the NGT's Central Zone Bench, Bhopal, on Tuesday, revealing rampant unauthorised development and obstruction of natural water flow in the area.

It stated that the Hingonia Dam, originally constructed in 1889, has been increasingly encroached upon by private builders and developers.

The committee found that prominent builders, including M/s Manglam Builders, have developed residential colonies and roads within the dam's submergence zone, directly violating environmental norms.

It also revealed that approximately 2 kilometres of approach road leading from NH-48 to the dam has been constructed through this submerged area.

The report stated that three major residential township projects — Panchsheel Park, Virat City, and Brijasha Ocean—are also under development in the dam's submergence area.