Bhoj Wetland Case: Green Activist Submits Proof Of Squatters To NGT

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Acting on the directives of National Green Tribunal (NGT), green activist and petitioner Rashid Noor Khan has submitted concrete proof of illegal encroachments in the catchment area of Bhoj Wetland, particularly around the Upper Lake.

The evidence, submitted with photographs, reveals landfilling, unauthorised construction and illegal dumping, posing a serious threat to wetland’s ecosystem.

The NGT had specifically instructed identification of encroachers affecting the Upper Lake—part of the ecologically critical Bhoj Wetland, a Ramsar site of international importance.

Khan accused state agencies, including the Wetland Authority, Bhopal Municipal Corporation and the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board, of failing in their responsibilities and violating environmental laws.

“It is the state’s duty to safeguard this wetland through its institutions. Unfortunately, they’ve forgotten their responsibilities and are allowing rampant exploitation and abuse of this heritage site,” Khan said.

He alleged that powerful people owning properties near the lake are illegally filling sections of the lake with soil, drastically reducing its size. This landfilling, he said, blocks natural rainwater flow, increasing the risk of flooding in nearby residential areas and disrupting public life.

Khan said that these activities contradict objectives of Amrit Dharohar Yojana, a national initiative aimed at protecting India’s wetlands.

“The inclusion of Bhoj Wetland in Amrit Dharohar Yojana highlights its environmental and cultural significance. But ongoing encroachments undermine the very goals of the scheme,” he said.

Encroachment Case

* What: Proof of encroachments submitted to NGT

* Where: Upper Lake catchment, part of Bhoj Wetland (Ramsar site), Bhopal

* By whom: Activist Rashid Noor Khan

* Allegations: Landfilling, illegal construction and waste dumping

* Concern: Risk of flooding, ecological degradation and violation of Amrit Dharohar Yojana goals