Delhi authorities face judicial scrutiny over heritage sites and pollution

The Supreme Court of India has criticized the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for “total callousness” regarding the upkeep of heritage monuments in the capital. Following reports of encroachment and poor maintenance of Lodhi-era tombs in the Zamrudpur area, the court directed the additional commissioner of the MCD and the Director General of the ASI to appear in person to explain their conduct.

Separately, the Delhi High Court has ordered the government, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), the MCD, and the Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC) to create a new redevelopment plan for Samaypur Badli. The court aims to prevent untreated sewage from flowing into the Yamuna river. The bench emphasized the need for physical inspections and clear boundary demarcation to stop authorities from “passing the buck” regarding sewage and stormwater drainage infrastructure.