Order of the National Green Tribunal regarding dumping of waste in village Dughneri, district Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, 01/09/2021
Order of the National Green Tribunal in the matter of Rita Sharma & Others Vs State of Himachal Pradesh & Others dated 01/09/2021. Grievance in the application was against violation of Air Act 1981 and Water Act 1974 in village of Dughneri, district Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, on account of failure to handle waste which is being burnt, causing air pollution, resulting in diseases, loss of livestock and contributing to forest fires and loss of wildlife. There is increase in population of monkeys, feral dogs and scavengers namely crows, vultures, etc. Dump site in the hilly terrain is overflowing and contaminating water body, which is a source of irrigation.
The matter was last considered by the NGT, November 17, 2020 in the light of the report filed by the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board, along with the joint inspection report, August 17, 2020. The report informed the tribunal that deficiencies existed but the Municipal Council, Hamirpur was not able to remedy the same for want of funds. The court had directed the Secretary, Urban Development Department, Himachal Pradesh to ensure further remedial action and file a compliance report. Lack of funds was not a "ground to deny clean environment to the citizens", the court said.
The NGT, September 1, 2021 noted that no compliance report has been filed by the Urban Development Department of the state - even though the matter has been deferred thrice for the report. Also, none appeared representing the state. The court granted one last chance to the Secretary, Urban Development Department, Himachal Pradesh to take remedial action and file compliance report within one month.