In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court has imposed a strict deadline on the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), barring it from occupying the ecologically sensitive Yamuna floodplain area beyond March 31, 2026. The court's decision came after it was revealed that DMRC continued to operate industrial facilities in the zone despite previous instructions to vacate.
Court Expresses Surprise Over DMRC's Inaction
A special bench comprising Justices Prathiba M Singh and Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora recently heard a petition highlighting the corporation's non-compliance. The bench noted it was "surprising" that no action had been taken to remove a batching plant and a casting yard from the floodplain, even after a directive issued on December 11 to vacate the area.
During the proceedings, DMRC's counsel cited delays due to the imposition of GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) restrictions. However, the court was firm in its stance, granting an extension only as an exceptional measure.
Strict Deadline and Restoration Mandate
"Considering that DMRC is engaged in a critical infrastructure project in Delhi, namely the Delhi Metro and its ancillary developments, this court, as an exception, grants time till March 31, 2026, for dismantling machinery, equipment, batching plants and the casting yard," the bench stated.
The order carries a clear warning: from April 1, 2026, DMRC will be "restrained" from using the floodplain for any activities whatsoever. The court has laid down a comprehensive restoration plan.
The key directives for DMRC include:
- Completely dismantle all machinery and structures by the deadline.
- Restore the floodplain to its original condition in consultation with the horticulture and forest departments.
- Ensure the area is free of all debris, machinery parts, and other remnants.
- Hand over the fully cleaned land to the Delhi Development Authority (DDA).
Oversight and Compliance
To ensure accountability, the High Court has instructed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to file a compliance report by April 10, 2026. This report will confirm that the floodplain has been vacated and restored as mandated.
The ruling underscores the judiciary's increasing focus on balancing urban infrastructure development with environmental protection, especially concerning vital natural zones like river floodplains.
While acknowledging the importance of the Delhi Metro project, the court has drawn a firm line to prevent prolonged ecological encroachment. This decision sets a precedent for how public infrastructure projects must adhere to environmental norms and deadlines.
