Illegal Bridges Over Natural Nullah Transform East Shankar Nagar Into Polluted Drainage Zone A recent inspection of East Shankar Nagar in Nagpur revealed widespread illegal construction over a natural nullah, turning the water channel into a contaminated undercurrent. The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court had previously expressed grave concerns about infrastructure violations and lax enforcement on the Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth (PDKV) land, but the situation has worsened. A detailed survey by The Times of India found that large sections of the nullah have been sealed with concrete slabs and pipes to accommodate commercial establishments, including eateries, hostels, and liquor bars. The nullah, which flows from West Shankar Nagar through West High Court Road, was originally a vital drainage system. However, illegal bridges have been constructed at key points, such as near Bharat Lawn, to facilitate access to businesses. These structures have effectively blocked the natural flow of water, while the remaining open sections are heavily polluted. Residents report that the channel is choked with plastic waste, liquor bottles, and food debris, creating a foul-smelling environment. The nullah reappears near Kachipura slum before merging with the Nag River behind Dharampeth College. Legal directives from the Supreme Court and High Court have explicitly banned construction on nullahs, water bodies, and buffer zones to prevent urban flooding and environmental harm. Despite these orders, encroachment continues. A caretaker, Ramesh Tiwari, confirmed that concrete pipes were laid to cover the nullah, erasing its natural course.#nagpur #nagpur_improvement_trust #east_shankar_nagar #panjabrao_deshmukh_krishi_vidyapeeth #maharashtra_state_electricity_distribution_company
