The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday asked the Haryana government to submit its report by August 28 regarding encroachment and filling up of a natural stormwater drain — Kosh/Badshahpur nullah — that is spread across 27 kilometres. The issue pertains to encroachment and filling up of the natural drain in Gurgaon. According to the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, the natural nullahs are not supposed to be concretized as they act as ground water recharge zones for the region. Loss of natural water reservoirs leads to waterlogging and flooding during monsoon. The nullah’s stretch from Sohna road till NH-8 and beyond also has largely been concreted, alleged the petitioner.

Source: Hindustan Times August 12, 2017 17:36 UTC