Haryana officials served notice over waste mismanagement

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued show-cause notices to senior Haryana officials over non-compliance with its previous order on garbage management in Faridabad.

During the hearing, the Tribunal noted that authorities had not submitted compliance reports despite clear directions. A video submitted by the applicant showed violations of the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016.

The order states, “On seeing the video, we have serious doubt regarding the competence and commitment to Rule of Law on the part of the officers concerned.”

Officials asked to respond include the Chief Secretary of Haryana, Member Secretary of the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB), Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation, Faridabad, and the District Magistrate of Faridabad.

They have been asked to explain why action should not be taken against them under Section 26 of the NGT Act, 2010, which allows prosecution and civil imprisonment.

The order also noted, “Right to clean and healthy environment is a fundamental right encompassed by Article 21 of the Constitution, and the State and its instrumentalities are bound to ensure that the above said right is not violated by its action or inaction.”

The NGT directed the District Magistrate, Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation, and Regional Officer of HSPCB to appear in person before the Bench on October 30, with all relevant records.

The Tribunal emphasised that continued scrutiny of municipal and state authorities was essential for implementing environmental laws and ensuring proper waste management in urban areas.