The Rajasthan High Court (Jaipur Bench) has directed immediate removal of encroachments on nalas and catchment areas in village Khatwada, Tehsil Sanganer, and extended the directions statewide for protection of water bodies.
Background
The petition highlighted encroachments by construction of pakka boundary walls on agricultural lands, blocking natural water flow towards Nevta dam during monsoons. The Court had previously taken judicial notice of similar issues affecting Ramgarh Lake and Kukas Dam.
Court’s Directions
Acting Chief Justice Sanjeev Prakash Sharma and Justice Maneesh Sharma, on 02 July 2026:
- State authorities must immediately remove obstructions on nalas and catchment areas.
- Landowners constructing boundary walls must provide adequate openings at lower sides for water flow.
- Encroachments disturbing natural water courses not to be permitted.
- Directions apply to entire catchment areas of Ramgarh, Kukas, and Nevta.
- Civil and Revenue Courts restrained from entertaining suits relating to these areas without Court permission.
- Landowners may voluntarily provide access; their other property shall not be disturbed.
- Notices to be published in newspapers and issued by Tehsildar giving opportunity to comply.
- Compliance report to be filed by 05.08.2026.
The Court emphasised the critical role of water bodies in recharging groundwater in Rajasthan’s desert region and the State’s duty to protect them ahead of the monsoon season.
Key Takeaways
- Environmental Protection: Priority to natural water flow over private boundary constructions.
- Public Interest: Encroachments on catchment areas affect larger ecological balance.
- Judicial Oversight: Direct State action with monitoring; restraint on parallel litigation.
- Citizen Responsibility: Landowners expected to facilitate water flow voluntarily.
Case Details
Case Name: Govindram v. State of Rajasthan & Ors.
Citation: D.B. Civil Writ Petition No. 7507/2026
Court: Rajasthan High Court, Jaipur Bench
Coram: Hon’ble Acting Chief Justice Mr. Sanjeev Prakash Sharma & Hon’ble Mr. Justice Maneesh Sharma
Date of Order: 02 July 2026
Click HERE for full Judgment.
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