Delhi High Court Demands Accountability and Timelines for Mahipalpur Waterlogging Near Airport

The Delhi High Court has criticised the absence of clear responsibility and implementation timelines for tackling persistent waterlogging and traffic congestion in Mahipalpur, particularly on the airport-Gurugram corridor.

Background

The matter is being heard in a petition concerning severe waterlogging in the area. Earlier court directions required coordination among NHAI, DIAL, MCD, DDA, Delhi Jal Board, DMRC, PWD and other stakeholders.

Legal issue and Court's reasoning

Government-level meetings identified reduced carrying capacity in the existing drainage network following development in Aerocity. DIAL also gave an in-principle commitment for a 3.5-km storm-water drain along NH-48, while NHAI was asked to prepare a permanent technical proposal.

The Court found that subsequent meetings generated substantial paperwork without fixing which agency would execute which component or by when. It said an administrative response cannot end with coordination meetings if no entity is accountable for delivery on the ground.

Result and practical consequence

The Bench was also dissatisfied with NHAI's preparedness at the hearing and noted that no responsible official was present to assist the Court.

The proceedings will continue with the focus on concrete allocation of responsibility, technical execution and enforceable timelines.