The failure of a Patwari to submit a report on encroachments on river land in Ferozepur, Punjab, has prompted the Deputy Commissioner (DC) to demand a time-bound report. The issue concerns approximately 47 km of the Sutlej river area, stretching from Harike Pattan to Hussainiwala Head Works, where illegal encroachments are contributing to annual flood threats in nearby border villages.

The matter initially surfaced three years ago before the National Green Tribunal (NGT), leading the then-Deputy Commissioner to request a report from the Patwaris. Despite this directive, no report has been submitted, and no action has been taken to remove the encroachments. This inaction has resulted in continued flooding in the catchment area, which is attributed to departmental and administrative negligence.

The encroachments involve influential farmers allegedly colluding with government officials to cultivate the dry riverbed of the Sutlej. These farmers have not only started farming but have also installed electric motors to draw water from the river for irrigation, effectively converting portions of the riverbed into agricultural fields.

The Sutlej river in this region, approximately 47 km long, remains mostly dry because the water is blocked at the Harike headworks to facilitate its release into canals flowing towards Rajasthan. This prolonged dryness has allowed influential individuals to encroach upon the land for farming and related activities.

Concerns over encroachments on water bodies are not limited to this specific case. The Supreme Court has also expressed concerns about increasing encroachments along the Ganga River and has directed the Union government, Bihar government, and other authorities to submit a detailed report within four weeks. This report should outline the status of these encroachments. The court's directive, issued on April 2, 2025, emphasizes the need for a 'clear, comprehensive, and time-bound report'. The case was heard during an appeal filed by a Patna resident.

Similarly, the High Court has directed officers of the Revenue, Forest Department, and National Highways Authority to prevent fresh encroachments on government, forest land, public roads, and paths. The court has mandated that Forest Guards, Patwaris, and Work Inspectors report any existing or new encroachments in their respective areas to the appropriate authorities. The High Court has cautioned that any dereliction of duty would lead to strict action, including potential contempt proceedings, criminal charges, and departmental actions, potentially leading to suspension or dismissal from service.

These instances highlight a broader issue of illegal encroachments on public and environmental lands and the challenges in addressing them due to administrative delays and alleged collusion. The courts are increasingly taking cognizance of these issues, demanding stringent action and accountability from the concerned authorities to protect vital natural resources and prevent environmental damage.