March 15, 2026 : The Supreme Court has directed the Union government to submit a detailed report on illegal constructions and encroachments along the banks and flood plains of the Ganga river, while also informing the court about the steps taken to remove such structures.

A bench comprising Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice KV Viswanathan asked the Centre to place on record the measures undertaken so far for the implementation and execution of the government notification concerning the rejuvenation, protection and management of the Ganga.

The court also issued notices to several states located in the Ganga basin and observed that the matter requires a broader review beyond individual disputes. The bench indicated that the issue of encroachments on the river’s floodplains involves environmental protection and sustainable river management across multiple states.

In addition, the apex court sought clarification from the Centre regarding the directions it believes the court should issue to ensure effective enforcement of the notification. The bench asked what further steps or judicial directions would help guarantee that the banks and floodplains of the Ganga remain free from illegal constructions and permanent encroachments.

The court was hearing a petition filed by a Patna resident, challenging the June 30, 2020 order of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which had dismissed his plea concerning illegal constructions and permanent encroachments on the eco-sensitive floodplains of the river.

The Supreme Court has now scheduled the next hearing in the matter for April 23, when the Centre is expected to present its report and clarify the actions taken to protect the river ecosystem.