Six years after the launch of the ambitious Rs 840-crore Buddha Nullah rejuvenation project in Ludhiana, a fresh controversy has erupted. The dispute centers on the construction of a retaining wall in the nullah's catchment area, which has drawn the attention of the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
NGT Orders Halt to Construction in Catchment Area
The ongoing construction activity has violated environmental safeguards, according to reports. The NGT has directed the state government to halt all types of construction in the catchment areas of the nullah. The tribunal has also sought detailed maps from the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) to assess the situation.
According to the original story, the NGT's directive came after concerns were raised about the environmental impact of the construction work in the sensitive catchment zone.
Residents Allege Work Continues Despite NGT Order
Despite the clear directions from the NGT, residents of New Deep Nagar, which is located close to the nullah, have alleged that work on the retaining wall and road construction is continuing. This has raised serious questions about compliance with the tribunal's orders.
The allegations from residents suggest that the construction activity has not stopped, even after the NGT's intervention. This has added a new layer of controversy to a project that was already under scrutiny.
Background of the Buddha Nullah Issue
For nearly three decades, Buddha Nullah has been one of Punjab's most pressing environmental problems. The nullah, which runs through Ludhiana, has been heavily polluted by industrial and domestic waste. The Rs 840-crore rejuvenation project was launched six years ago to clean and restore the water body.
The project was seen as a major step toward addressing the long-standing pollution issue. However, the fresh controversy over the retaining wall construction has cast a shadow over the project's progress and its adherence to environmental norms.
Our Take: Compliance and Accountability Are Key
In our view, the fresh controversy over the Buddha Nullah rejuvenation project highlights a critical issue: the gap between regulatory orders and on-ground compliance. The NGT has given clear directions to halt construction, yet residents claim work is still happening. This is not just a procedural failure — it undermines the entire purpose of the rejuvenation project.
If the project is to succeed, the authorities must ensure that all construction activities strictly follow environmental safeguards. The NGT's demand for detailed maps from the PPCB is a step in the right direction, but it must be followed by strict enforcement. The people of Ludhiana deserve a clean Buddha Nullah, not more controversy.
