Author: Sharad Natani

A controversy has erupted at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) after students of Periyar Hostel alleged that the hostel warden carried out unauthorised construction on the lawn of official residential quarters, triggering strong objections and a formal complaint to the university administration. According to students, a permanent tin-sheathed structure was constructed for domestic staff without obtaining mandatory administrative approval. They claim the move violates university housing norms and amounts to encroachment on common hostel land meant for collective use by residents. Encroachment on Common Space Raises Concerns Photographs shared by students show a structure with extended boundary walls that significantly reduce…

The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) is set to introduce a cutting-edge AI-driven project monitoring system that will use drone cameras and advanced artificial intelligence to oversee metro infrastructure projects in real time. The initiative aims to significantly improve efficiency, reduce delays, and enhance transparency in one of India’s largest urban transport networks. According to officials, DMRC plans to develop an AI-based Project Management System (AI-PMS) that will continuously monitor construction progress, identify potential risks, and automatically adjust project timelines wherever required. Unlike traditional monitoring tools, the proposed system will be capable of independent decision-making, enabling faster corrective action. AI…

New Delhi is facing an unexpected challenge in its crackdown against illegal groundwater extraction. According to a recent report submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), 153 illegal borewells in the capital cannot be traced, leaving authorities unable to seal them or take corrective action. The issue has surfaced during an ongoing campaign against rampant groundwater exploitation, which poses a serious threat to Delhi’s already stressed water table. The Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), in its latest status report, has highlighted that incorrect and incomplete records have become a major obstacle in enforcement. Over 20,000 Illegal Borewells Identified Across Delhi…

In a move aimed at improving safety and usability of public spaces, the Greater Noida Authority has launched a special drive to eliminate darkness from parks across city sectors by installing high-mast lights. The initiative comes after repeated complaints from residents about poorly lit parks that become unsafe after sunset. Officials said that nearly 20 parks across different sectors have been identified where lighting infrastructure was either missing or inadequate. High-mast lights are being installed to ensure uniform illumination across the entire park area. Residents Raised Safety Concerns Many parks in Greater Noida turn dark in the evening due to…

The Yamuna River in Delhi could soon witness the return of indigenous fish species as the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued fresh directions to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to take concrete steps for restoring aquatic biodiversity. The move comes amid growing concern over the sharp decline of native fish due to rising pollution levels. According to officials, the NGT has asked CPCB to work towards increasing the population of Indian native fish species while also controlling the spread of invasive foreign varieties that are dominating polluted stretches of the river. NGT Flags Alarming Decline in Native Fish…

Residents of Greater Noida West can expect a more reliable and uninterrupted power supply ahead of the peak summer season. The Greater Noida Authority has initiated work to upgrade electricity infrastructure by enhancing the capacity of the 33 kV Itaheda substation, a key power source for the region. As part of the plan, an additional 10 MVA transformer is being installed at the substation, increasing its total capacity from 20 MVA to 30 MVA. This upgrade is aimed at meeting the rising electricity demand during the summer months and reducing the chances of power cuts. Power Line Connected to 220…