Archive · 6 Oct 2026
NGT Orders Joint Demarcation of Shahpura Lake Boundaries
The National Green Tribunal is looking into alleged building and pollution problems around Shahpura Lake in Bhopal.
It said local authorities should work together instead of blaming one another.
The authorities have 10 days to mark the lake’s boundary and a nearby buffer area.
After that, the local sub-divisional magistrate must start action against illegal and temporary structures in those areas.
A drone survey reported finding several structures and alleged encroachments.
The petitioner also claimed untreated sewage is entering the lake.
The tribunal told the city corporation to provide a report on what it has done.
The case will be heard again on October 30.
The National Green Tribunal reprimanded Bhopal authorities for shifting responsibility over alleged encroachments and environmental violations at Shahpura Lake.
The Kolar sub-divisional magistrate, Water Resources Department and Bhopal Municipal Corporation must jointly mark the lake’s full tank level and buffer zone within 10 days.
After demarcation, the Kolar sub-divisional magistrate must begin action to remove illegal and temporary structures in the catchment and 50-metre buffer area.
A drone survey conducted on July 24, 2026, identified permanent and temporary structures and alleged encroachments in the catchment area.
The tribunal directed Bhopal Municipal Corporation to submit a compliance report; the next hearing is scheduled for October 30.
- Who
- The National Green Tribunal’s Central Zone Bench, and officials from the Kolar sub-divisional magistrate’s office, Water Resources Department and Bhopal Municipal Corporation.
- What
- The tribunal ordered joint demarcation of Shahpura Lake’s full tank level and buffer zone, and directed follow-up action against illegal and temporary structures.
- When
- The order was issued on Monday; the drone survey was conducted on July 24, 2026, and the next hearing is scheduled for October 30.
- Where
- Shahpura Lake, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.
- Why
- The tribunal is addressing alleged encroachments and environmental violations, including claims that untreated sewage enters the lake.
- Tribunal
- National Green Tribunal, Central Zone Bench, Bhopal
- Case
- Nitin Saxena vs MP State Wetland Authority & Ors.
- Demarcation deadline
- Within 10 days
- Buffer area
- 50 metres
- Drone survey date
- July 24, 2026
- Next hearing
- October 30