Green tribunal orders fresh probe into pollution of Delhi’s Satpula Lake

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) to conduct a fresh inspection of Satpula Lake to resolve conflicting claims about the lake’s condition. The tribunal’s order follows allegations of untreated sewage from a nearby drain contaminating the water body.

The case, heard recently by the NGT, highlighted discrepancies between reports submitted by the DPCC and the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) regarding the lake’s condition. While the DPCC reported that Satpula Lake is heavily polluted, with a non-functional sewage treatment plant (STP) nearby, the DDA claimed the lake is in good condition and that sewage is adequately treated before being discharge.

These contradictory statements prompted the NGT to seek clarity through an independent investigation.

The tribunal has instructed the DPCC to collect water samples from both the lake and the STP. The samples will be tested to determine whether untreated sewage is indeed flowing into the lake.

Additionally, the NGT has also asked the DPCC to investigate how an STP was permitted to operate in a designated green area, raising questions about regulatory oversight.

“In view of the above contradictory material on record, we direct the DPCC to carry out the spot inspection, ascertain the status of performance of the STP, get the sample analysis of treated water discharged from the STP as well as sample analysis of lake water, and also find out if the STP has any by-pass permitting untreated sewage to be discharged in the lake,” a bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava said.

The DPCC has been given six weeks to submit a detailed report.