Order of the National Green Tribunal regarding waste disposal dump yards on the bank of river Khoh, Kotdwar, Uttarakhand, 28/07/2020
The order of the National Green Tribunal in the matter of Arvind Baniyal Vs State of Uttarakhand dated 28/07/2020. The issue for consideration was the remedial action against waste disposal dump yards illegally set up on the bank of river Khoh at village Ratanpur, Kashirampur, Gadighat and near Sports Stadium, Kotdwar in Uttarakhand where garbage was being burnt and river water was polluted.
A report was filed on May 21, 2020 on behalf of the state of Uttarakhand stating that some interim measures had been adopted and further action was in progress. The NGT found the progress inadequate in terms of the timelines laid down under the statutory rules. The Tribunal cautioned that the damage to the environment was continuing - which was a criminal offence. The NGT while granting adjournment till January 11, 2021, made it clear that the state of Uttarakhand would be liable to pay damages for inaction and prosecution of the officers concerned - if no further progress was made.