The Defence Colony is grappling with a severe public health and environmental crisis due to ongoing and continuous toxic gaseous emissions from a large nallah passing through the area. This once-clean floodwater drain has become a hazardous sewage channel (unofficial conduit for untreated sewage and waste) due to years of mismanagement and civic inaction, threatening residents’ health, property, and quality of life.
The toxic air pollution infringes upon residents’ Right to Life under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which includes the right to a clean and safe environment.
The Nallah passes through Defence Colony is approx. 1.4 KM long and 50m wide. It is partially covered by a Nallah Park. The toxic gases built up from stagnant sewage under the covered rotting Nallah Park are released continuously in large quantities from a large section, 100m long of uncovered Nallah between D-15G and D-147 and other outlets connected to the drain throughout the colony. These toxic gases disperse throughout the colony 24hrs*365 days.
The untreated sewage in the Nallah undergoes anaerobic decomposition, producing toxic gases such as Hydrogen Sulphide, Ammonia and Methaneand many more.
These gases are released due to the accumulation of organic waste, lack of oxygen, and bacterial activity within the drain. Hydrogen Sulphide and ammonia are notorious for their foul odours and harmful health effects, while Methane is a potent greenhouse gas contributing to climate change.
Restoration of the Nallah wall (50m long between D-159 and D-147, right opposite the park) which was built for safety of residents). It has been fully broken down making an open gateway right into the drain. It has become a dumping ground, open toilet / defecation center. The wall needs to be rebuilt immediately to prevent any mishaps, accidents and prevent people from throwing garbage and stuff into the nallah. Without the wall, anyone can easily fall into the Nallah especially in the night. It is another disaster waiting to happen. me.”
