Nagpur, India: Residents affected by the September 2023 floods have approached the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court, complaining about a blockage in the Nag River at Ghat Road. They claim that part of the river under the railway bridge has been blocked to build a new road, which could increase the risk of flooding.

According to the rules, a 15-metre buffer zone must be maintained on both sides of the river, with no construction allowed. The residents argue that these rules have been ignored. They have requested the court to remove the blockage and build protective walls along the river to prevent future floods.

Steps Taken to Prevent Flooding

Divisional Commissioner Vijayalakshmi Bidri has submitted a report outlining the steps being taken to manage flood risks:

• Water Removal: 32 crore litres of water have been pumped out from Ambazari Lake.
• Encroachment Clearance: 56 illegal structures along Nag, Pili, and Pohra Rivers have been removed.
• River Cleaning: A clean-up drive is in progress and will be completed by June 15.
• Water Release Gates: Work on new gates for Ambazari Lake is set to finish by June 15.
• Hyacinth Removal: Authorities are working on clearing water hyacinth from Ambazari Lake.
• Bridge Construction: The new bridge near Ambazari Lake will be open for traffic from April 1.
• River Widening: The Nag River near Krazy Castle will be widened by 18 metres by May 15, 2025.

A division bench of Justice Nitin Sambre and Justice Vrushali Joshi has taken note of the residents' complaint and the administration’s report. The next hearing is scheduled for Wednesday. Advocate Tushar Mandlekar is representing the residents in the case.