NOIDA: Following a report by
TOI highlighting civic apathy, Sector 99 residents have lodged a complaint against the alleged encroachment and destruction of a green belt in the area.
The residents claim that trees were uprooted, walkways damaged, and trenches dug after part of the green belt was allotted to a person.
Residents expressed outrage over the damage caused to the green belt, which they described as an essential recreational space for the community.
“We are distressed by the felling of trees and the destruction of walkways in the green belt. It’s shocking that land in the green belt was allotted for private use,” said Vinod Choudhary, RWA general secretary.
The land was allocated to RP Barman, a retired Noida Authority official, for a meditation centre.
Residents argue the green belt, funded by a 5% green belt charge they paid, is meant for environmental preservation, not private development.
Choudhary added that trees were being uprooted, particularly at night, prompting the residents to take action.
The issue gained attention after residents and RWA members gathered at the site earlier this week to protest the destruction.
“We cannot stand by as our limited green spaces are destroyed. We are determined to protect the green belt,” said Rishipal Singh, another RWA member.
Residents are now seeking intervention from the Noida Authority CEO, urging immediate action to halt construction.
A letter was sent on Jan 3, emphasising the need to preserve the sector’s ecological balance.
When approached, RP Barman was unavailable for comment.
However, Anand Mohan Singh, deputy director of horticulture at Noida Authority, said the allotment does not constitute encroachment.
“A portion of the green belt was allocated for a meditation center, similar to spaces given for Mother Dairy booths and transformers. It’s not being used for residential purposes,” Singh said.
Regarding the uprooted trees, Singh assured residents that replanting efforts are underway and any damage to walkways or tiles will be repaired.
Residents, however, continue to demand stricter measures to safeguard the green belt.
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