Tue Dec 30 13:30:38 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary:

The Delhi High Court has ordered the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) to vacate the Yamuna floodplain area by March 31, 2026, where it currently operates batching plants and a casting yard. The court granted the extension as an exception, considering the DMRC’s crucial infrastructure project. After dismantling its equipment, the DMRC must restore the floodplain to its original condition, removing all debris, and hand it over to the Delhi Development Authority (DDA). The DDA is required to file a compliance report by April 10.

Here’s a news article version:

Delhi Metro Ordered to Vacate Yamuna Floodplain by 2026

NEW DELHI (Dec. 30, 2025) – The Delhi High Court has ruled that the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) must vacate the Yamuna floodplain area, where it operates batching plants and a casting yard, by March 31, 2026. The ruling comes after a petition regarding the DMRC’s continued occupation of the area despite previous instructions to relocate.

Justices Prathiba M. Singh and Manmeet Pritam Singh Arora, presiding over the case, expressed surprise that no action had been taken to remove the facilities. However, acknowledging the DMRC’s vital role in developing Delhi’s infrastructure, the court granted a one-time extension until the specified date for dismantling machinery and equipment.

“Considering that DMRC is engaged in a critical infrastructure-related project in the city of Delhi, namely the Delhi Metro and the ancillary developments, as an exception, this Court deems it appropriate to grant time till March 31, 2026, for dismantling of machinery, equipment, and dismantling of the batching plants, the casting yard, etc.,” the court stated in its order.

The court further stipulated that from April 1, 2026, the DMRC is prohibited from using the area for any activities. Beyond vacating the site, the DMRC is also responsible for restoring the floodplain to its original condition in consultation with the horticulture and Forest Department, ensuring the removal of all debris and equipment. The restored area will then be handed over to the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), which is required to submit a compliance report by April 10.

The DMRC had cited delays due to GRAP restrictions as a reason for requesting the extension. The court’s decision underscores the importance of environmental considerations even within critical infrastructure projects and highlights the ongoing efforts to protect the Yamuna floodplain.

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