Renewed Efforts to Protect Green Belts in Greater Noida
In a decisive move to restore and protect the city’s designated green areas, the horticulture department under the Greater Noida authority has issued a 10-day deadline for the removal of illegal structures and activities from the green belts located in Sector 3 and Patwari village in Greater Noida West. This initiative was announced by officials on Thursday, signaling a renewed commitment to preserving the city’s natural spaces.
If the encroachments are not cleared voluntarily within this period, the department will take direct action to remove them. This step is part of a broader effort to address the growing issue of shrinking green cover in the rapidly expanding urban landscape of Greater Noida West. The region has seen significant construction activity, often at the expense of environmental protections.
“Green belts are not empty land to be seized; they serve as critical buffers against pollution, heat, and unplanned development. Reclaiming these spaces is about more than enforcement—it’s about restoring the city’s ecological balance,” said Gunja Singh, officer on special duty (OSD). Her comments reflect the urgency of the situation and the importance of maintaining green spaces for the well-being of the community.
This initiative is part of a larger strategy led by the chief executive officer of the Greater Noida authority, NG Ravi Kumar. He has directed officials to monitor and maintain green zones regularly. OSD Singh, who recently visited the affected sites, emphasized that the focus is not just on removing encroachments but also on ensuring the long-term maintenance and beautification of these green belts. This approach aims to ensure that the spaces continue to fulfill their environmental functions effectively.
The department has instructed teams to implement measures for long-term upkeep once the spaces are reclaimed. These include proper landscaping, fencing where necessary, and regular maintenance by the horticulture department. Such efforts are essential to prevent future encroachments and ensure that the green belts remain functional and aesthetically pleasing.
With the monsoon season currently underway, civic officials have raised concerns about the increased risk of soil erosion, waterlogging, and drainage blockages in areas where green spaces have been illegally occupied. These issues highlight the urgent need to restore and protect the green belts to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall and other weather-related challenges.
Beyond the 10-day grace period, if encroachments are not removed voluntarily, the department will conduct enforcement drives to clear them. In addition, there are plans to involve local residents and resident welfare associations (RWAs) in the preservation of the green belts once they are restored. This collaborative approach is expected to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among the community for maintaining these vital spaces.
The recent actions taken by the horticulture department underscore the importance of balancing urban development with environmental sustainability. By reclaiming and reviving green belts, the city can work towards a healthier and more livable environment for its residents.
