Delhi High Court Issues Warning on Mahipalpur Water-Logging
In a recent development, the Delhi High Court has issued a stern warning regarding the ongoing construction activities in the Aerocity area. This warning comes in light of persistent water-logging and traffic congestion issues in Mahipalpur, which the court attributes to the development in Aerocity and the nearby National Highway-48.
The Division Bench, comprising Justices Prathiba M Singh and Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora, expressed serious concerns over the situation. They emphasized that the agencies responsible have failed to address the water-logging issues, despite the evident need for action [Social Jurist Civil Rights Group v. Union of India and Ors].
Justice Singh stated, “We are putting them to caution today. If they do not take steps and come forward to the court, we will stop construction. Be clear about it. If they want to shirk it, then we will stop construction in Aerocity. We will not hesitate.”
The court was hearing a petition by the Social Jurist Civil Rights Group, which seeks the construction of a functional stormwater drainage system along the NH-48 stretch between Mahipalpur and Rangpuri Village. During the previous hearing, the court had instructed the Chief Secretary of Delhi to convene a meeting with relevant stakeholders, including the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, Delhi Development Authority, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Delhi Jal Board, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, and the Public Works Department.
However, the minutes of the meeting submitted to the court revealed a lack of clarity on agency responsibilities. The court criticized this lack of accountability, noting, “No responsibility has been fixed as to which job is to be undertaken by which agency. The callous approach of the NHAI is not appreciated as there is no official present before the court, and neither is the counsel prepared to make any substantial submission.”
The bench further warned, “They have to do it for the people there. The cars have been submerged. Don’t resolve it, we will not hesitate [to stop construction]. If you don’t sort it out, there will be stringent action.”
Justice Singh urged the NHAI and Delhi International Airport Limited to expedite the resolution of these issues. The court directed that a comprehensive report detailing proposed actions and the responsible agencies be submitted by October 15. Additionally, the agencies identified during the meeting are required to file a status report on the steps taken before the next hearing on October 30.
Standing counsel Sameer Vashisht represented the Delhi government in the proceedings. The court’s decision underscores the urgency of addressing the infrastructural challenges affecting the Mahipalpur area, emphasizing that the authorities must act promptly to avoid further judicial intervention.
