NGT Imposes ₹1,000 Crore Fine on Punjab Government

August 28, 2024

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has fined the Punjab government a huge amount—Rs 1,000 crore. This fine was imposed because the state has repeatedly failed to manage its solid and liquid waste properly, despite many warnings and legal obligations. The NGT has also ordered that this money be sent immediately to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and has held top government officials responsible for the ongoing failures.

What is the Penalty About?

The penalty, totaling Rs 10,261,908,000, is based on environmental fines collected over six months. It includes:

Legacy Waste: Punjab has accumulated 5.387 million tonnes of old waste, and a fine of Rs 0.01 per kilogram per day has been imposed.

Untreated Sewage: The state has a gap in treating 314.06 million liters of sewage per day. For this, an additional charge of Rs 0.01 per liter per day has been added.

Why Did the NGT Impose This Fine?

The NGT’s decision is based on two main legal frameworks: the Solid Waste Management Rules of 2016 and the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986. These laws require strict management of waste, which Punjab has failed to do.

Who is Being Held Responsible?

The NGT has ordered the Chief Secretary and Additional Chief Secretary (Urban Development) of Punjab to explain why they haven’t followed the rules. They have one month to respond. If they fail to comply again, they might face more legal action. In September 2022, the NGT imposed a Rs 2,080 crore fine. However, the government didn’t set up a separate account to deposit this money, showing a pattern of ignoring the court’s orders.

2014: The Supreme Court initiated a case focusing on waste management.
2016: The Solid Waste Management Rules were introduced, and the NGT issued orders for states to comply.
2019-2022: Various reports showed that Punjab violated these rules, leading to multiple fines and warnings.

The NGT has scheduled another hearing for September 27, 2024, to review the situation. The tribunal’s ongoing oversight ensures that the Punjab government follows waste management regulations and that public officials are held accountable.

Facts About National Green Tribunal (NGT)

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) was set up in India in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act.
It is a special court that deals with environmental issues in India, aiming to provide quick justice in environmental matters.
The NGT’s headquarters are in New Delhi, with regional branches nationwide.
Its decisions are binding and can only be appealed in the Supreme Court.
The tribunal plays a key role in enforcing environmental laws and policies in India.

« Previous Post Next Post »