Greater Noida Pit Accident: FIR Filed Against Five Under Environmental and Water Laws
Greater Noida
In a significant development in the Greater Noida pit accident case, police have registered a fresh FIR naming five individuals for alleged violations of environmental, water pollution, and public safety laws. The case relates to the tragic death of 27-year-old software professional Yuvraj Mehta, who drowned after his car fell into a water-filled pit near a public road in Sector-150.
The FIR was lodged at the Knowledge Park Police Station after authorities detected serious safety and environmental lapses at the site. The accused have been booked under provisions of the Environmental Protection Act, 1986, the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.
Named Accused and Legal Sections
The individuals named in the FIR are:
- Abhay Kumar
- Sanjay Kumar
- Manish Kumar
- Achal Bohra
- Nirmal Kumar
They have been charged under:
- Section 15 of the Environmental Protection Act
- Sections 24 and 43 of the Water Pollution Act
- Sections 290, 270, and 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
Unsafe Pit Posed Serious Public Risk
According to the police, the case came to light during routine patrolling when officials discovered a large pit filled with stagnant water that had remained unattended for several years. The water was reportedly contaminated, emitting a foul odour and surrounded by accumulated waste, raising concerns about public health and safety.
The pit was located close to a public roadway and lacked barricades, warning signs, or any safety measures, making it extremely dangerous. Residents in the area complained that strong winds carried the stench from the pit, making it difficult to breathe.
Ownership and Construction Details
Preliminary investigation revealed that the land was originally purchased in 2014 by Lotus Green Construction Private Limited and later sold to Viztown in 2020. However, police records indicate that Lotus Green Construction continues to hold a significant stake in the property.
SIT Formed, CEO Arrested
The development follows the recovery of Yuvraj Mehta’s vehicle by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) from the flooded pit after heavy rainfall on the night of January 16–17.
Earlier, police arrested Abhay Singh, CEO of Viztown, who was produced before a local court and sent to judicial custody for one day. He is scheduled to be presented again before the court on Thursday.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to probe the matter. SIT head Bhanu Bhaskar stated that the team has begun its investigation and will submit a detailed report within five days after examining officials and interacting with the victim’s family.
Political Response and Family Allegations
BJP MP Mahesh Sharma, while offering condolences, said that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has assured strict action against anyone found responsible for negligence.
Meanwhile, the victim’s family has alleged serious administrative failure, claiming that Yuvraj Mehta remained trapped in the submerged car for nearly two hours while bystanders recorded videos instead of providing help.
The case has intensified scrutiny over construction safety, environmental compliance, and accountability in rapidly developing urban areas.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Bharatiya News staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
