Punjab tells NGT no allotments under LIGH policy till July hearing

Bathinda: The Punjab govt has reiterated before the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that no allotments or permissions will be granted under its ‘policy for approval/regularisation of low impact green habitats (LIGH), 2025' till the next hearing on July 21.The assurance, first submitted to the NGT on Dec 18, 2025, was reaffirmed by the chief secretary and principal secretary (housing and urban development) through their counsel when the matter came up on April 9. The order was uploaded on April 10.The state had earlier told the tribunal that no allotments had been made or permissions granted under the impugned notification, and that the status quo would continue.As per the Council of Engineers (COE), the policy, notified on Nov 20, 2025, allows construction of permanent structures, including for commercial use, on land delisted from the Punjab Land Preservation Act.Challenging the policy, the CoE had moved the NGT seeking its quashing, calling it illegal and in violation of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The petition cites a Sept 9, 2025 Supreme Court order that allowed such land to be used only for agriculture and livelihood purposes, arguing the policy runs contrary to these directions.CoE representatives said the state is yet to file its reply despite earlier deadlines. They also flagged amendments made on April 7, 2026, which removed provisions on commercial use and eco-tourism but still permit up to 15% construction, alleging this reflects "malafide intent".The CoE further argued that ministry of environment guidelines and the Eco-Tourism Policy, 2018, restrict such land use and prohibit permanent structures, terming the changes a "cosmetic exercise" favouring private interests.