Court refuses to stay eviction in Yamuna floodplain

Pollution in Yamuna River is at an all-time high, the Delhi High Court has remarked while refusing to stay an eviction notice issued to the residents of an unauthorised colony located in the river floodplain.

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The high court observed the argument that the colony in south Delhi did not fall in the floodplain, as the risk of flooding was only one in 25 years, and did not hold water.

"Moreover, even if it is assumed that Shram Vihar Colony is situated outside the flood plains, yet it falls within zone 'O', which is an ecologically fragile zone and is being primarily used for horticulture and has a wealth of flora and fauna," a bench of Chief Justice Manmohan and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela said.

"It needs to be borne in mind that zone 'O' has been conceived for rejuvenation of River Yamuna and eco-friendly development in line with the river and its morphology," it said.

The bench, therefore, dismissed the applications, saying the occupants over there were not entitled to any stay on the eviction notices.