Order of the National Green Tribunal regarding Vishnugad project, Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, 01/08/2019
Order of the National Green Tribunal in the matter of Gram Pradhan & Residens of Tapoban Vs State of Uttarakhand dated 01/08/2019. Construction of barrage by the National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC) for the Vishnugad project in village Tapovan, District Chamoli, Uttarakhand in the year 2005 had created problems for the livelihood of the villagers. Even though land was given for the project, no employment came their way and there was lack of amenities like street lights, facilities for animals and technical education. Also dust pollution was affecting the health of the inhabitants.
A report from the NTPC, Tehri Development Corporation Limited (TDCL) and Uttarakhand State Pollution Control Board (Uttarakhand SPCB) mentioned about muck disposal but does not give a clear picture. NGT through its order of August 1, 2019 asked for more details on the muck disposal and the list of places where it was being disposed and the problems faced. Court made it clear that this was necessary to ensure that there was no damage to the environment.