NEW DELHI (India CSR): The National Green Tribunal (NGT) delivered important rulings regarding environmental concerns in India. These included addressing the increasing number of exotic fish species in the Yamuna River, imposing a hefty fine on Panipat Thermal Power Station for environmental damage, and investigating illegal tree cutting in Hasdeo Forest for coal mining.
NGT Orders Ministry Response on Exotic Fish in Yamuna
The National Green Tribunal has directed the Union Ministry of Fisheries and Ministry of Jal Shakti to respond within four weeks regarding the growing number of exotic fish species in the Yamuna River. A report by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) highlighted a significant decline in the local fish population, with exotic species like common carp and Nile tilapia increasingly dominating the river. The NGT’s inquiry into the issue is aimed at addressing concerns about the river’s ecological balance and its impact on indigenous species.
The ICAR-CIFRI report, based on a 2020-24 study, revealed that species like Mahseer have drastically reduced in number due to factors such as siltation and dam construction. Additionally, the report showed a sharp increase in the population of exotic species, raising concerns about the long-term ecological consequences. The NGT’s decision could lead to stronger regulations on foreign species in Indian waters.
Panipat Thermal Power Station Fined Rs 6 Crore for Environmental Damage
The NGT imposed a fine of ₹6.9 crore on the Panipat Thermal Power Station for improperly handling and disposing of fly ash, which caused significant environmental harm. The station was found to have caused pollution through the unscientific disposal of over 10.8 million tonnes of fly ash. The tribunal set a deadline of 2027 for the complete disposal of the fly ash in an environmentally sound manner.
The court also criticized the station’s efforts in tree plantation, noting that the survival rate of planted trees was not ensured, rendering the initiative ineffective. The NGT directed the plant to develop a green belt and work with local authorities to ensure the survival of the trees.
Investigation Ordered into Illegal Tree Cutting in Hasdeo Forest
In another case, the NGT has constituted a seven-member committee to investigate the illegal felling of over 15,000 trees in Hasdeo Forest, located in Chhattisgarh. The trees were being cut for the Parsa East and Kele Bason coal mining project, which is being developed by Rajasthan State Electricity Corporation in collaboration with the Chhattisgarh government and an Adani company.
The Citizens Action Group of India had petitioned the NGT about the illegal deforestation, which has faced protests from local villagers. Despite resistance, police intervention allowed the illegal activities to continue. The committee will submit a report within six weeks after conducting a site visit. The next hearing is scheduled for December 23, 2024.
These rulings demonstrate the NGT’s continued focus on environmental protection, holding industries and projects accountable for their impact on India’s natural resources.
