The Supreme Court has ordered the Bihar government to clear unauthorised structures along the Ganga River in Patna within six weeks. A bench noted that no action had been taken despite previous directions. The next hearing is set for September 23, 2026.
A bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and K V Viswanathan issued the order on July 21. It directed removal of encroachments between Nauzar Ghat and Nurpur Ghat. The court warned that laxity would be viewed strictly and asked for a compliance report by the next hearing.
The case stems from an appeal by Ashok Kumar Sinha challenging a 2020 National Green Tribunal judgment. Advocate Akash Vashishtha represented him. In 2023, 213 encroachments were identified between Digha Ghat and Nauzar Ghat.
The Supreme Court stated that no steps had been taken to remove the encroachments despite earlier orders. It is likely to hear the matter next on September 23, 2026.