February 05, 2026 : The Principal Bench of the National Green Tribunal has taken suo motu cognisance of allegations that an unauthorised residential colony is being developed near the ecologically sensitive Sambhar Lake in Rajasthan, allegedly in violation of wetland protection laws.
The proceedings arise from a complaint filed by the General Manager (Works) of Sambhar Salts Limited, which was submitted through the Tribunal’s Public Grievances Redressal Portal and subsequently registered as Original Application No. 45/2026. The complaint claims that a residential project known as “Shyam Sarovar Colony” is being developed on agricultural land near Devyani Road, close to Kyar Nos. 9–10, without mandatory approvals from statutory wetland authorities.
According to the application, the land falls within the buffer zone and natural inflow area of Sambhar Lake, a notified wetland. It is alleged that the construction of permanent boundary walls and internal roads has obstructed the natural flow of rainwater into the lake, posing a serious threat to its ecological balance. The complaint further states that no permissions were obtained from the National Wetland Committee, the Rajasthan Wetland Committee, or the Sambhar Lake Management Agency, rendering the development illegal under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017.
The applicant has also pointed out that earlier directions issued by the Tehsildar, Phulera, in April 2023 had explicitly restrained the Municipal Board, Sambhar Lake, from allowing permanent constructions in the lake area and its buffer zone. Despite these restrictions, permission for the colony is alleged to have been granted, raising concerns about administrative lapses and non-compliance with environmental safeguards.
The matter was listed before a Bench comprising Judicial Member Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and Expert Member Dr Afroz Ahmad. Although a representative of the applicant attempted to join the hearing through video conferencing, technical issues prevented effective interaction. After considering the record, the Bench noted that the cause of action arose within the territorial jurisdiction of the Tribunal’s Central Zone Bench at Bhopal.
Accordingly, the Principal Bench directed the Registry to place the matter before the Central Zone Bench on 25 February 2026, subject to approval from the Chairperson for transfer of the case. The Registry has also been instructed to inform the applicant of the next hearing date and to ensure that all supporting material is produced before the appropriate Bench.
The case highlights continuing concerns over construction activity in and around protected wetlands and the enforcement of buffer zone restrictions meant to safeguard fragile ecosystems.
Case Reference : Original Application No. 45/2026 titled General Manager, Sambhar Salts Ltd. v. State of Rajasthan & Others.
