‘Use stone pitching for artificial lakes’
Move will help allow seepage at Qutab Golf Course: NGT
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to use ‘stone pitching’ for construction of artificial lakes in the Qutab Golf Course in South Delhi.
A stone pitched surface is hard-wearing stone surface using large stones, set into the ground like rough cobble stones to provide a reasonable surface.
The NGT asked the DDA to use such material, which ensures that there is no obstruction to seepage of water into the underground water table for recharge.
“We record the submission on behalf of respondent no 2 (DDA) that the water body shall be developed using stone pitching and that they shall ensure that there is no obstruction for the percolation of water into the underground water table for its recharge,” said a bench, headed by justice Jawad Rahim.
“The respondent no 2 shall ensure rain water harvesting within the Qutab Golf area, which is presently said to have two or three recharge wells. This shall also be maintained and any additional facility that will improve the environment shall be made,” the bench said.
The green panel also asked the DDA to ensure no other activity, which can impact the environment is undertaken by the authorities.
The direction came as the NGT disposed of a plea by NGO Chetna seeking a stay on construction activity and asking the DDA to place on record the source of water intended to be used for the lakes. The NGO said the material to be used for the lake construction was ethylene propylene diene monomer, which was not environment friendly.
“Creation of lakes in an unscientific manner without technical consultation would lead to an unsustainable water body, which will will eventually lead to its death.