Illegal pond filling in Howrah's ward 26 stopped after Taaza TV exposes forged documents

Illegal pond-filling activities were discovered in Ward 26 of central Howrah, allegedly conducted by local promoters using falsified documents. Residents reported that the pond was being filled rapidly, raising environmental concerns in the area. Upon receiving complaints, Howrah Municipal Corporation (HMC) officials visited the site to investigate and stop the work. However, they faced resistance from the promoter’s associates, who accused the officials of being involved in the illegal activity themselves.

According to HMC, the documents presented by the promoters to justify the filling were found to be forged. This prompted the intervention of senior officials, including the Chief Administrator of HMC, who coordinated with local police to halt the pond-filling and begin clearing the site. The Corporation has confirmed that a detailed inquiry is underway to identify and take action against those involved in the forgery and environmental violation.

Former councilor and Mayor-in-Council member Shyamal Mitra, who visited the site, stated, “Such activities cause significant harm to the environment and the community. Strict legal action is necessary to prevent further violations.” HMC has pledged to increase vigilance across the city to ensure that no other water bodies are targeted for illegal development.