The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has issued notices to several agencies, including the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Public Works Department, National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), and the Delhi Jal Board, directing them to clear construction waste and debris accumulated during projects on the Yamuna floodplain by the end of June.
In alignment with directives from the Delhi High Court issued on April 8, the DDA has taken proactive steps to ensure the removal of debris and waste generated from various construction activities, including the building of bridges and railway lines.
To enforce compliance with the court's orders, the DDA has warned of taking up the cleaning task itself and imposing appropriate costs on defaulters should there be any lapses from the responsible stakeholders.
Anuj Dayal, principal executive director of corporate communications at Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, assured that while there is no significant accumulation of construction waste due to Metro work at the Yamuna Bridge site, any remaining materials will be cleared by June 15, with responses already communicated to the irrigation department and DDA.
Similarly, an official from NCRTC reported significant progress in the Rapid Rail Transit System (RRTS) work in Yamuna Khadar, with ongoing restoration efforts underway.
In addition to clearing debris, the DDA intends to appoint nodal officers for each floodplain stretch to oversee maintenance, prevent encroachment, and ensure proper waste management, as part of its rejuvenation and redevelopment initiatives for the area.
Moreover, the DDA has collaborated with the National Mission for Clean Ganga and the Delhi government's Irrigation and Flood Control department to facilitate silt removal through controlled and scientific dredging, in accordance with the directives of the Delhi High Court.
The concerted efforts of the DDA and various agencies aim not only to address immediate environmental concerns but also to foster sustainable development and conservation of the Yamuna floodplain ecosystem.
