New Delhi: National Green Tribunal has directed authorities to install bio-fencing by planting shrubs and trees instead of constructing a concrete structure around a village pond in south west Delhi, as concrete walls could obstruct the natural flow of rainwater and accelerate degradation of the water body.The tribunal was hearing a matter related to encroachment around a village pond. Noting that part of the boundary wall has already been built under an approved budget, the tribunal asked authorities to examine bio-fencing and undertake plantation along the remaining stretch during the ongoing monsoon season, with the involvement of the forest authority.The tribunal also directed regular cleaning of the pond, prevention of solid waste dumping, installation of warning boards, and submission of a status report on measures to stop untreated sewage from entering the water body. It clarified that encroachments must be removed only after following due process of law and directed authorities to prepare a list of encroachments and initiate eviction proceedings in accordingly. The matter will next be heard on Sep 8, 2026.