New Delhi/Chandigarh, August 5, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Rajya Sabha MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal on Wednesday raised concerns over the protection of rivers and natural water bodies during the Monsoon Session of Parliament, urging the government to launch a nationwide campaign to remove illegal encroachments from rivers, streams, drains, lakes and other waterways.
Speaking during a Special Mention in the Rajya Sabha, Sant Seechewal said that unchecked encroachments on natural water channels were posing a serious threat to the environment, agriculture and public safety. He urged the Centre and state governments to strictly implement the directions issued by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and ensure the restoration of rivers and water bodies.
“ A river never dies alone; with it, the entire fabric of nature perishes. If we fail to free our rivers from illegal encroachments today, future generations will never forgive us,” he said.
Sant Seechewal said rivers were not merely sources of water but formed the foundation of India’s civilisation, agriculture and ecological balance. He pointed out that widespread encroachments on riverbeds, floodplains, wetlands and natural drainage channels had disrupted the flow of water and increased the risk of floods in several regions.
Referring specifically to Punjab, he said illegal occupation of rivers, seasonal rivulets, drains and natural water channels had severely affected the drainage system, increasing risks to human lives, property and the environment.
The Rajya Sabha member said the NGT, through various judgments, had clearly held that illegal constructions and encroachments on river floodplains and natural waterways could not be allowed. Blocking natural water courses, he added, amounted to damage to the environment and public welfare.
Highlighting constitutional provisions, Sant Seechewal said Article 48A of the Constitution places a responsibility on the State to protect and improve the environment, while Article 51A(g) makes environmental protection a fundamental duty of citizens.
He called for a time-bound national drive to clear illegal encroachments from rivers and other natural water bodies while ensuring strict compliance with NGT orders.
Sant Seechewal also appealed to social and religious organisations, environmental groups and citizens to participate in a collective movement for the protection and restoration of India’s rivers.
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