NGT directs state pollution boards to frame action plans

New Delhi: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed all the State Pollution Control Boards and Pollution Control Committees to prepare action plans for restoration of environment and implementation of District Environment Plans, in coordination with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
A bench, headed by NGT Chairperson, Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, issued the directions while hearing an application seeking punitive action against illegal operation of marriage halls, nursing homes, clinics, hospitals, commercial complexes, hotels and other commercial establishments in Uttar Pradesh.
The petitioner said that these establishments are being operated in the state’s Banda, Mahoba and Chitrakoot districts, without consent from the State Pollution Control Board, and in violation of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, Environment (Protection) Act, the Biomedical Waste Management Rules and the Solid Waste Management Rules.
The NGT had earlier asked the pollution board to submit its report. Not satisfied with the report submitted on June 11, the bench on Monday directed it to revisit the plan and finalise it with the approval of the CPCB within two months.
The bench also directed, “All other State PCBs and PCCs may also prepare similar action plans for restoration of environment and implementation of District Environment Plans, in coordination with CPCB. CPCB may also prepare such plans for utilisation of funds available with it. CPCB may file a compliance report to this effect within four months.” (IANS)