India, Aug. 5 -- The groundwater department of Uttar Pradesh government has directed officials in Gautam Budh Nagar to investigate complaints of illegal groundwater extraction at construction sites in Noida and Greater Noida and take action against violators, following directions issued by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

The direction followed an order from the NGT's principal bench regarding a plea by environment activist Vikrant Tongad alleging rampant illegal extraction of groundwater by private builders, industries and individuals, particularly at large construction projects in Noida and Greater Noida.

On July 24, the directorate of the ground water department of Uttar Pradesh government instructed the district groundwater author...