NGT Issues Notice to Centre on Diluted Ganga Floodplain Norms

Gist The National Green Tribunal NGT has sought a response from the Union government regarding a recent amendment by the Ministry of Jal Shakti that alters construction rules along the Ganga river. The amendment fundamentally redefines the concept of a floodplain, moving away from a broad 100-year flood line to a much narrower five-year flood baseline for the core "active" zone, effectively reducing the strict no-construction areas. Aspirants must track this development as it highlights the tension between infrastructure development and riverine ecology, directly impacting disaster management and environmental conservation policies. Background The management and protection of the Ganga river basin are governed primarily by the River Ganga Rejuvenation, Protection and Management Authorities Order, 2016 . Under the original 2016 order , the floodplain was largely defined by a once-in-100-year flood line , treating this expansive area as a strict "construction-free zone" to prevent encroachment and ecological degradation. A floodplain acts as a river's natural shock absorber; restricting construction here is critical for groundwater recharge, preserving biodiversity, and mitigating severe flood disasters. The recent amendment, notified by the National Mission…