AAP says it gave nod to Sri Sri for bridge in event of flood only

The Delhi government’s flood and irrigation department told the National Green Tribunal on Tuesday that it had given permission to Art of Living to construct a pontoon bridge but only “in case of a flood”.

The Delhi government’s flood and irrigation department told the National Green Tribunal on Tuesday that it had given permission to Art of Living to construct a pontoon bridge but only “in case of a flood”.

: Newly constructed buildings at Yamuna River belt. Massive construction is underway on the Yamuna bank along the DND for a World Cultural Festival by Art of Living scheduled for early March. (Photo by Ravi Choudhary/ Hindustan Times) (Hindustan Times)

The government’s counsel said it did not have the authority to grant permission to build a bridge in any other situation. That power, he said, lies with the Union ministry of water resources.

The ministry could not come up with any response on whether such permission was given. An answer is expected on Wednesday.

The Delhi government has been silent on the issue of the festival so far. Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal is expected to attend the function.

Hindustan Times had reported last week how Delhi water minister Kapil Mishra had extended his full support to the event.

On Tuesday, however, the Delhi government said it gave conditional permission for building the pontoon bridge. Officials distanced themselves from the event.

“We have nothing to do with the event. The DDA gave the permission for the event. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee gives permission only for industrial activity, not socio-cultural festivals,” said a senior government official.

The two pontoon bridges, built for the festival by the army, are under scrutiny.