NGT Issues Notice Over Illegal Groundwater Extraction in Guwahati

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued notices to the Assam government and multiple agencies over alleged illegal groundwater extraction in Guwahati.

The tribunal’s Eastern Zone Bench admitted a petition highlighting unauthorised borewells in the Barshapara area, citing environmental risks from excessive groundwater use. The case was filed by Milan Kanti Das and others.

The Bench directed all respondents, including state officials, the Public Health Engineering Department, the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), and local water authorities, to submit replies within four weeks. The next hearing is scheduled for May 8.

Petitioners claimed that RTI data from CGWB showed no clearance for groundwater extraction, alleging that multiple borewells are operating illegally and water is being supplied commercially instead of for drinking purposes.