NGT Calls for Urgent Action on Water Crisis and Environmental Pollution Across India

Keywords: NGT, Kolkata water crisis, Chandan Pokhari, River Markanda, environmental pollution, slum rehabilitation, CPCB, water quality standards, sustainable development.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued directives in multiple cases highlighting the urgent need for resolving water-related issues and environmental pollution across various regions of India. The tribunal’s interventions span Kolkata, Odisha, and the polluted River Markanda in northern India. Here is an overview of the key developments:

NGT Directs Kolkata Municipal Corporation to Ensure Drinking Water for Slums

On December 5, 2024, the NGT rejected a report submitted by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) regarding the provision of basic amenities, particularly piped water, to slum dwellers in the city.

The tribunal observed that the affidavit failed to disclose clear details of the wards with and without piped water supply. KMC admitted it would require five years to extend the water supply to the entire population, leaving a significant number of residents without access to potable water.

Expressing concern over mushrooming slums and the lack of basic facilities, the NGT remarked, “It is the duty of the authorities to provide housing and drinking water for slum dwellers as drinking water is a basic necessity.” The tribunal directed KMC to file a detailed affidavit within four weeks, ensuring transparency and accuracy.

NGT Orders Rehabilitation of Polluted Chandan Pokhari Waterbody in Puri, Odisha

In another order on December 5, 2024, the NGT directed the District Magistrate of Puri, Odisha, to implement recommendations for the revival of the Chandan Pokhari waterbody in Gopinathpur village.

The waterbody, crucial for farming, fishing, and religious purposes, has suffered due to encroachment, pollution, and neglect. A site inspection revealed the pond was surrounded by private establishments discharging wastewater and dumping solid waste, leading to the growth of water hyacinth and rendering the waterbody unusable for the last 8–10 years.

The NGT recommended immediate steps, including:

1. Removal of water hyacinth to restore sunlight and oxygenation.
2. Prevention of waste discharge by private entities.
3. Desilting and embankment lining to prevent outside waste entry.
4. Provision of an outlet to drain excess water during the monsoon.

The District Magistrate has been instructed to file a compliance affidavit within four weeks.

River Markanda Meets Bathing Standards, CPCB Report Confirms

In a positive development, the NGT noted that the water quality of the River Markanda, monitored at its Himachal Pradesh and Haryana entry points, meets primary bathing standards.

A report by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) confirmed compliance with discharge norms by Ruchira Paper Ltd, a paper mill previously accused of polluting the river. The river’s pollution had raised concerns about its impact on human health, cattle mortality, and religious sentiments.

To rejuvenate the river, comprehensive action plans by River Rejuvenation Committees under state governments are underway, targeting polluted river stretches identified by the CPCB in 2018.

Conclusion

The NGT’s proactive steps underscore the critical need for sustainable water management and pollution control in India. While efforts like the rejuvenation of River Markanda showcase progress, challenges such as the water crisis in Kolkata and pollution in Odisha highlight the need for stronger implementation of environmental laws and policies.

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