The Supreme Court has intervened to halt construction projects at Nagpur's Futala Lake, directing the Maharashtra government to maintain the status quo. The ruling comes in response to an appeal filed by the Swacch Association Nagpur, an NGO, which highlighted the violation of Wetlands Rules and the potential ecological impact of the proposed construction.

A three-judge bench, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, alongside Justices JB Pardiwala and SC Sharma, issued the directives after careful consideration of the environmental concerns raised by the NGO. The proposed construction projects, including a laser light show, fountains, and a viewing gallery, were deemed detrimental to the fragile ecosystem of Futala Lake, one of the few remaining water bodies in India.

During the proceedings, Chief Justice Chandrachud expressed incredulity at the encroachment on water bodies, questioning the necessity of such construction projects. He emphasized the importance of preserving these natural habitats, lamenting the diminishing number of water bodies across the country. Justice Pardiwala echoed these sentiments, challenging the notion of temporary structures and emphasizing the long-term implications of the proposed developments.

The dispute over the redevelopment and beautification of Futala Lake dates back to 2018 when the Municipal authorities issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for various construction activities. However, the petitioner NGO, represented by senior advocate Gopal Sankarnarayanan, argued that these projects would involve dumping concrete into the lake bed and encroach upon the wetland area, violating environmental regulations.

Central to the controversy is the classification of Futala Lake as a wetland. While the Maharashtra government claimed it was not a protected wetland during proceedings before the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court in 2023, the petitioner presented evidence to the contrary. Futala Lake, historically constructed in 1799, serves as both a vital ecosystem and a Grade I Heritage Precinct in Nagpur.

The Supreme Court's decision to seek affidavits from the Nagpur Municipal Authority and the Maharashtra government underscores the gravity of the situation. The bench has demanded comprehensive details of the proposed projects, emphasizing transparency and accountability in environmental matters.

The NGO's appeal highlights the potential environmental damage posed by commercial ventures within the wetland area. The proposed construction, including a floating restaurant and laser light installations, raises concerns about habitat disruption and migratory bird populations.

Furthermore, the NGO contends that the construction violates Wetlands Rules, specifically Rule 4(2)(i), which prohibits non-wetland uses within wetland areas. The absence of proper permissions for commercial ventures and the disregard for environmental regulations have exacerbated the situation.