The Forward Foundation led a historic legal battle that has redefined environmental protection for water bodies across India. In the landmark case of Forward Foundation & Ors. v. State of Karnataka, we successfully secured rulings from the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the Supreme Court of India to halt illegal construction on ecologically sensitive wetlands.

This victory established a vital national precedent by mandating strict ‘Buffer Zones’ around lakes and stormwater drains (Rajakaluves), preventing urban encroachment. While the case originated in Bengaluru, the judgment significantly expanded the NGT’s powers to protect the environment nationwide. It remains one of our greatest achievements, ensuring that water bodies across the country are legally shielded from unregulated development for generations to come.