The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued notices to Chief Secretary, Delhi government and Vice Chairman, Delhi Development Authority over disappearing water bodies in Delhi, calling for a detailed report in the matter within six weeks. NHRC has taken suo motu cognizance of the media report of disappearing water bodies in Delhi due to alleged unplanned growth and negligence by the authorities, NHRC, in a statement, said. The Commission has observed that the issue raised in the media report is a matter of concern.
There are laws and guidelines to safeguard such vital components of the environment. The alleged negligence by the authorities tantamount to violation of human rights, as the water bodies and wetlands are a vital part of the hydrological cycle, which supports rich biodiversity and provides a wide range of ecosystem services such as water storage, water purification, flood control, erosion control and microclimate regulation. The Commission has also noted that on April 23, 2019, Wetland Authority was constituted under the chairpersonship of the Chief Secretary in Delhi for conservation and management of wetlands.
These water bodies, which play a major role in maintaining ecological balance in the region have been encroached upon or polluted with sewage. Delhi has reportedly 1,043 identified water bodies belonging to different authorities and according to the reported official data, 169 of them have been either infringed on or destroyed. Giving an example of a water body in Khichripur area that has been included in the official record for years but it is yet to be reclaimed or rejuvenated, NHRC said.
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