NGT Flags Alleged Construction In Violation Of GRAP-III & IV, Issues Notice And Directs CAQM To Conduct Verification
Pranav B Prem
The National Green Tribunal, Principal Bench, New Delhi, has taken cognizance of allegations relating to large-scale construction and demolition activities being carried out in violation of GRAP-III and GRAP-IV restrictions and has issued notice to the respondents. The Bench comprising Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Chairperson, and Dr. A. Senthil Vel, Expert Member, observed that the matter raises substantial issues concerning compliance with environmental norms
The Tribunal was hearing an Original Application alleging that Respondent No. 4 was undertaking extensive demolition and construction work within its office campus, involving approximately 80 washrooms, despite the air pollution control measures imposed under GRAP-III and GRAP-IV. According to the applicant, the construction activity commenced on 22 November 2025 and continued unabated thereafter, in clear violation of the prevailing restrictions.
Placing his personal circumstances before the Tribunal, the applicant submitted that he has a two-month-old infant daughter suffering from serious health issues and that he himself is afflicted with allergic bronchitis. It was stated that due to the deteriorating air quality and health complications, he was compelled to stay away from his child. On account of the medical expenses incurred and the health impact suffered, the applicant sought compensation amounting to ₹7.11 lakh.
The applicant further informed the Tribunal that complaints regarding the ongoing construction activity were lodged on 22 November 2025 through the Green Delhi App launched by the Department of Environment and Forest, Government of NCT of Delhi. In addition, complaints were also addressed to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), followed by a subsequent complaint on 23 November 2025. Despite these representations, no action had been taken, prompting the applicant to approach the Tribunal. Photographs were placed on record to demonstrate that construction activities were continuing at the site
After considering the submissions, the Tribunal observed that the application disclosed substantial issues relating to adherence to environmental regulations. Accordingly, notice was issued to the respondents. The applicant was directed to serve the respondents and to file an affidavit of service at least one week prior to the next date of hearing.
The Tribunal also issued specific directions to the Commission for Air Quality Management. The CAQM was directed to consider the applicant’s complaint dated 22 November 2025, carry out a ground verification, ascertain whether any violations had occurred, and take appropriate remedial as well as punitive action in accordance with law within a period of ten days from receipt of the order. The CAQM has been directed to file an action taken report at least one week before the next date of hearing. The matter has been listed for further consideration on 17 February 2026.
Cause Title: Shubham Verma V. Central Pollution Control Board & Ors.
Case No: Original Application No. 663/2025
Coram: Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Chairperson, and Dr. A. Senthil Vel, Expert Member
