NGT penalises Chief Environmental Officer for Ganga pollution in Varanasi
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has fined the chief environment officer of Uttar Pradesh Rs 10,000 for failing to enforce environmental compensation (EC) on those polluting the Ganga in Varanasi, as directed by the tribunal. The case pertains to the discharge of domestic and industrial wastewater into the river, particularly in Varanasi, a significant religious and tourist destination in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
In a previous hearing on February 16, the NGT took note of a report from the Varanasi Municipal Corporation, revealing the discharge of 100 million litres per day (MLD) of sewage water into the river. Subsequently, the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) committed to imposing EC on defaulting entities within four weeks.
However, in an order dated April 4, the NGT observed that water quality samples taken at various locations exceeded prescribed parameters, indicating continued pollution. Despite assurances from the UPPCB, the chief environment officer of Circle-6 (Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Azamgarh, and Basti) failed to take action within the stipulated timeframe.
Acknowledging the officer's negligence, the NGT imposed a fine of Rs 10,000, opting for leniency instead of prosecution. It directed the UPPCB to submit a report detailing remedial and punitive actions, including the recovery of EC from defaulting parties. The NGT scheduled further proceedings for July 16 to monitor progress in addressing Ganga pollution in Varanasi. (The Print)
NGT directs coordination on Bagjola canal pollution
The NGT has ordered the West Bengal state environment secretary to provide a report within four weeks detailing efforts to coordinate pollution control in the Bagjola canal. This decision comes as various government departments have been shifting blame regarding responsibility for cleaning the canal, a vital drainage channel along VIP Road now notorious for becoming a floating waste dumping site.
Responding to a petition by environmental activist Subhas Datta, the NGT's eastern zone bench, comprising Justice B. Amit Sthalekar and expert member Arun Kumar Verma, issued the directive on April 8. The order underscores the need for coordinated action among state departments, as internal disputes hinder progress.
The tribunal instructed the environment secretary to outline remedial measures and deadlines for addressing the canal's pollution. Datta highlighted the canal's dire state, noting untreated liquid waste flow and encroachments as primary issues.
Despite affidavits filed by various government departments, including urban development and municipal affairs, conflicts emerged, prompting the NGT's intervention. An official from the Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority pledged action, revealing plans for a Rs 166-crore cleanup project expected to conclude by 2028-29.
The NGT's directive aims to resolve interdepartmental discord and expedite efforts to tackle Bagjola canal pollution, emphasising the urgency of the situation. (The Telegraph)
Government may keep rule tap open on Bengaluru's water crisis
The Bengaluru water crisis spurred the state government into action, implementing measures to alleviate the situation. These efforts are poised to extend beyond the summer, with key regulations likely to persist post-crisis. The Karnataka State Water Policy 2022 serves as a foundation, advocating for rules such as controlling borewell drilling and mandating treated water usage in construction, crucial steps in water management.
Despite longstanding rules on paper, enforcement lagged due to various hurdles. However, recent momentum suggests a shift. For instance, since 2012, regulations prohibited borewell drilling for commercial purposes in groundwater-depleted areas, yet unauthorised borewells persist. Similarly, a 2019 mandate banned borewell water use in construction, yet until recently, non-compliance prevailed, especially evident during the recent crisis.
Officials emphasise the need for a societal shift, noting a growing willingness to adapt in the face of crisis. The time is ripe to capitalise on this momentum, fostering permanent changes in water management perceptions.
Key takeaways
- State government initiatives aim to address the Bengaluru water crisis, with measures likely to persist post-summer.
- The Karnataka State Water Policy 2022 advocates crucial regulations such as controlling borewell drilling and promoting treated water usage in construction.
- Despite longstanding regulations, enforcement faced challenges, but recent efforts signal progress.
- Non-compliance with regulations, such as borewell drilling restrictions and water usage in construction, persisted until the recent crisis.
- Officials stress the importance of societal mindset shifts, highlighting a growing readiness for change amid crisis.
NGT directs Punjab government on stubble management: Progress and plans
The NGT has directed the Punjab government to submit a comprehensive plan by May 5 for managing the estimated 19.52 million tonnes of paddy stubble in the state. The NGT took suo motu cognizance of stubble burning and its contribution to air pollution, particularly in North India, including Punjab and Haryana.
Reviewing a report from the Punjab government on crop residue burning control, the NGT sought additional information on stubble management for 2023 and 2024. According to Punjab's report, in 2023, the state generated 19.50 million tonnes of paddy straw, of which 15.86 million tonnes were effectively utilised. Of this, 11.5 million tonnes were managed on-site, and 3.66 million tonnes were utilized off-site in various facilities such as boilers, biomass plants, and thermal power plants.
For 2024, Punjab estimated the generation of 19.52 million tonnes of paddy straw, with a projected utilisation of 18.66 million tonnes. Notably, 12.7 million tonnes would be managed on-site, and 5.96 million tonnes would be utilised off-site in industrial and energy plants, indicating a significant increase in off-site utilisation compared to 2023.
The NGT instructed Punjab to disclose detailed plans for achieving the projected figures for 2024, including preparations made so far and forthcoming initiatives. Additionally, the NGT mandated Punjab to provide specifics on last year's steps to utilise paddy straw, including removal from fields, transportation to various units for off-site management, and the capacity and utilization of such units.
The NGT emphasised the need for transparency and accountability in Punjab's efforts to address stubble burning and urged the state to justify its utilisation figures with concrete evidence. (Business Standard)
Sewage pollution in Greater Kailash-I: NGT's call for action
The NGT has noted the ongoing issue of sewage entering a stormwater drain in Greater Kailash-I, despite repeated opportunities provided to the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) and Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) over the past year. Despite the tribunal's directives and the expiration of DJB's deadline to address the matter by March 31, no effective measures have been implemented.
The tribunal directed DJB to provide an update on the status of the drain flowing into the stormwater channel. This concern arose from a plea filed in the NGT last year, highlighting the open portion of the stormwater drain behind residences in GK-I emitting toxic odours, posing health risks to local residents.
In response to an affidavit submitted by DJB's CEO outlining timelines for drain tapping, the tribunal expressed disappointment over the lack of progress, indicating that the continued presence of sewage in the stormwater drain suggests inadequate tapping efforts.
Citing unsatisfactory responses from DJB and MCD, the tribunal deemed it necessary to impose interim compensation for ongoing violations of environmental norms. DJB's legal representative informed the NGT that approximately 67 million liters per day of untreated sewage flows into the said drain. (The Times of India)
India's climate policy: Pioneering sustainability and global responsibility
India's climate policy embodies a vision of inclusive growth, driven by principles of sustainability and social development. Shaped by global events like the Rio Summit of 1992, where the UNFCCC was born, India's environmental policies gained momentum. Climate change, propelled by excessive consumption patterns of developed nations, necessitates urgent action.
A recent study highlights the disproportionate ecological burden borne by developed countries. The US and EU, with just 16% of the world's population, account for 74% of excess resource use. In contrast, India and similar nations remain within sustainable limits, urging a reevaluation of global responsibility.
India's climate policy is multifaceted, rooted in geography, demographics, and societal values. Its vast landmass and rich biodiversity necessitate tailored strategies. With a burgeoning population and increasing vulnerability to extreme weather events, India faces significant climate risks, impacting livelihoods and economic growth.
Embedded in India's worldview is a reverence for nature, and Gandhi's principles of environmental stewardship, which guide India's commitment to sustainable development. Scientific evidence shapes policy decisions, driving initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and ambitious emission reduction targets.
India's climate policy evolution reflects a steadfast commitment to equitable solutions. The principle of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) underscores India's advocacy for fair burden-sharing. The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), supported by state-level initiatives, emphasises comprehensive sectoral interventions.
India's leadership in climate action is evident through global collaborations and innovative approaches. Investments in renewable energy have surged, surpassing targets ahead of schedule. Emphasis on basic services aligns development goals with environmental sustainability, promoting holistic progress.
In a world craving pragmatic solutions to climate change, India's inclusive and science-driven approach stands as a beacon of hope. By championing sustainability and resilience, India inspires a shift towards a more equitable and sustainable future for all. (The Indian Express)
This is a roundup of important policy updates from 1st April to 15th April, 2024. Read our news updates here.
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