NGT notice to PWD, others over ‘violation’ of environmental norms

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued notices to the Public Works Department (PWD) and other departments following allegations of violation of environmental norms during the construction of a road at Surajmal Vihar in East Delhi.

The case was filed by applicant Ashish Jain, who alleged that construction debris, including bitumen, had been dumped in the adjoining green belt, preventing rainwater from percolating into the ground, thereby affecting groundwater recharge during the monsoon. He further claimed that a long stretch of the road was left incomplete without a bitumen layer, resulting in dust pollution caused by vehicular movement.

According to the application, despite several complaints to various departments, no remedial measures had been taken. Jain supported his allegations with photographs submitted to the NGT, showing the debris in the green belt and the unfinished portions of the road.

The NGT Bench, comprising Justice Prakash Shrivastava (Chairperson) and expert member Ishwar Singh, directed that notices be issued to the respondents. The Tribunal instructed Jain to serve copies of the notice to all respondents and to file an affidavit of service at least one week before the next date of hearing. The Tribunal will take up the matter again on November 3 this year.