In a significant move to curb illegal construction and protect the environment, the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA) and the National Green Tribunal (NGT) have joined forces to tackle unauthorized developments in Greater Noida and Noida. This collaborative effort aims to address the rampant violations of environmental laws and building regulations that have plagued the region in recent years.
GNIDA’s Crackdown on Illegal Housing Projects
The Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority has taken decisive action against illegal housing projects in Tusyana village. An FIR has been lodged against 18 individuals involved in constructing unauthorized housing projects on government land. These illegal developments not only encroached on public property but also resulted in financial losses for the government and deceived potential buyers through fraudulent marketing practices.
According to GNIDA officials, the accused individuals conducted illegal plotting and construction activities in Tusyana village, ignoring multiple warnings to halt their operations. The unauthorized projects were falsely marketed as freehold properties and offered at lower rates, misleading many investors into spending their savings.
GNIDA CEO NG Ravi Kumar has directed officials to declare these individuals as “land mafia” within 15 days and launch a comprehensive campaign targeting illegal constructions in the notified area. The land in question is part of GNIDA’s proposed projects under the Greater Noida Master Plan, and such unauthorized activities negatively impact these initiatives.
NGT’s Intervention and Environmental Concerns
The National Green Tribunal has imposed restrictions on illegal construction and unauthorized developments in the region. This action was initiated following a petition filed by former municipal councillor Rajendra Tyagi, which highlighted widespread violations in 56 villages of Greater Noida and 18 villages in Noida.
The NGT’s order, issued on December 9, 2024, directs state authorities and the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) to ensure that no project requiring environmental clearances is allowed to proceed without compliance. The tribunal emphasized that large-scale illegal construction without following environmental norms is in progress, and immediate action is necessary to prevent further damage.
The petition filed by Tyagi alleged that over 20,000 hectares of fertile farmland in Greater Noida and a similar area in Noida have been usurped for illegal plotting and construction. These developments reportedly violate the Air Act and Water Act, and lack necessary clearances for groundwater extraction from the district ground water management council.
Scope of Illegal Constructions
The unauthorized developments in the region include a wide range of projects, such as villas, townships, colonies, and commercial establishments. These constructions are being carried out without obtaining required approvals like consent to establish (CTE), consent to operate (CTO), environmental clearances (EC), or proper land-use conversions.
The NGT bench, comprising Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Judicial Member Justice Sudhir Agarwal, and Expert Member Dr. A Senthil Vel, has directed the UPPCB to prevent illegal plotting in areas falling within floodplain zones. This measure aims to protect environmentally sensitive areas from encroachment and potential ecological damage.
Impact on Buyers and Government Revenue
The illegal construction activities have not only led to environmental concerns but have also had significant financial implications. Many investors have been misled into spending their savings on these unauthorized projects due to fraudulent claims made by the offenders. The government has also suffered financial losses as a result of these illegal developments.
GNIDA CEO Prerna Singh has reiterated that no construction is permitted in the notified area without proper approvals. Citizens have been urged to verify property details with the Authority to avoid falling prey to fraudulent schemes.
Ongoing Investigations and Future Actions
The matter is set for further hearing on March 27, 2025. In the meantime, authorities are conducting thorough investigations into the extent of illegal constructions in the region. The UPPCB has reported that 47 villages in Greater Noida were found to have unauthorized constructions, including shops and residences.
In Noida, areas such as Shahdara near Sector 141, Garhi Chowkhandi near Sector 121, and Behlolpur near Sector 65, which fall within the floodplain zone, are facing significant encroachment issues.
Conclusion
The joint efforts of GNIDA and NGT to combat unauthorized developments in Greater Noida and Noida represent a crucial step towards sustainable urban development and environmental protection. By cracking down on illegal construction activities and enforcing strict regulations, the authorities aim to preserve the region’s ecological balance, protect public interests, and ensure planned and legal growth.
As the investigations continue and legal proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen how effective these measures will be in curbing the longstanding issue of illegal constructions in the area. The success of these initiatives will largely depend on consistent enforcement, public cooperation, and a commitment to sustainable urban planning practices.