In a significant development, the Supreme Court is set to examine the absurd ban on older petrol and diesel vehicles in the National Capital Region (NCR) on Monday. The move comes in response to a petition filed by the Delhi government, contesting the complete ban on diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years. In response to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) decision, the government argues that the age restriction ban lacks scientific backing.&nbsp;The matter will be heard by a bench comprising Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran. A key issue to be addressed is whether Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) compliant vehicles should still be subjected to arbitrary end-of-life restrictions based solely on age.&nbsp;In its petition, the Delhi government has requested a thorough investigation by the Centre and CAQM to evaluate the actual environmental benefits of age-based restrictions versus emission-based criteria, according to a report by HT.<h3>Why was Delhi’s old vehicle ban policy banned?</h3>The existing ban was first imposed in 2015 by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which barred diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years from operating in Delhi-NCR. "The vehicles that are more than 15 years old will not be permitted to be parked in any public area, and they shall be towed away and challenged by the police under the law. This direction would apply to all vehicles without exception, i.e., two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, light vehicles, and heavy vehicles, irrespective of whether commercial or otherwise," the NGT stated in its order on November 26, 2014.&nbsp;However, the ruling was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018, indicating alarming air pollution levels in Delhi-NCR and a need to protect public health. In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) prohibited the fuel stations from supplying petrol and diesel to these "end-of-life" vehicles from July 1, 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, the policy was put on hold just two days after facing public backlash. Later, officials indicated challenges in logistics and gaps in infrastructure, particularly tracking and enforcing the complete ban effectively.&nbsp;Ahead of the review of the Supreme Court on the End-of-Life (EoL) vehicle policy, Delhi environment minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated last week that pollution levels of vehicles should be determined based on their usage rather than their age.&nbsp;"There are many vehicles that have aged, but because they haven't been used much, their pollution levels are lower. There are so many new vehicles whose age is less but have been used a lot; so we believe that the parameter to determine pollution levels must be the use of the vehicle instead of its age," Sirsa told news agency ANI.&nbsp;The Delhi government indicated that the current complete ban affects middle- and lower-income groups that depend solely on used vehicles for essential mobility.

The Delhi government has pledged a thorough investigation in its petition to the Centre and CAQM to evaluate the actual environmental benefits of age-based restrictions versus emission-based criteria.

In a significant development, the Supreme Court is set to examine the absurd ban on older petrol and diesel vehicles in the National Capital Region (NCR) on Monday. The move comes in response to a petition filed by the Delhi government, contesting the complete ban on diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years. In response to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) decision, the government argues that the age restriction ban lacks scientific backing. The matter will be heard by a bench comprising Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran. A key issue to be addressed is whether Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) compliant vehicles should still be subjected to arbitrary end-of-life restrictions based solely on age. In its petition, the Delhi government has requested a thorough investigation by the Centre and CAQM to evaluate the actual environmental benefits of age-based restrictions versus emission-based criteria, according to a report by HT. Why was Delhi’s old vehicle ban policy banned? The existing ban was first imposed in 2015 by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which barred diesel vehicles older than 10 years and petrol vehicles older than 15 years from operating in Delhi-NCR. "The vehicles that are more than 15 years old will not be permitted to be parked in any public area, and they shall be towed away and challenged by the police under the law. This direction would apply to all vehicles without exception, i.e., two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, light vehicles, and heavy vehicles, irrespective of whether commercial or otherwise," the NGT stated in its order on November 26, 2014. However, the ruling was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018, indicating alarming air pollution levels in Delhi-NCR and a need to protect public health. In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) prohibited the fuel stations from supplying petrol and diesel to these "end-of-life" vehicles from July 1, 2025. However, the policy was put on hold just two days after facing public backlash. Later, officials indicated challenges in logistics and gaps in infrastructure, particularly tracking and enforcing the complete ban effectively. Ahead of the review of the Supreme Court on the End-of-Life (EoL) vehicle policy, Delhi environment minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated last week that pollution levels of vehicles should be determined based on their usage rather than their age. "There are many vehicles that have aged, but because they haven't been used much, their pollution levels are lower. There are so many new vehicles whose age is less but have been used a lot; so we believe that the parameter to determine pollution levels must be the use of the vehicle instead of its age," Sirsa told news agency ANI. The Delhi government indicated that the current complete ban affects middle- and lower-income groups that depend solely on used vehicles for essential mobility.

The Delhi government has pledged a thorough investigation in its petition to the Centre and CAQM to evaluate the actual environmental benefits of age-based restrictions versus emission-based criteria.

Supreme Court to review blanket ban on older petrol, diesel vehicles in Delhi-NCR—Here's why it was banned?

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) warned Bihar State Pollution Control Board that it may take strict action if they failed to file its response over allegation of pollution caused by thermal power plant at Kanti Nagar village in Muzaffarpur district.

NGT had sought a report from District Magistrate, Muzaffarpur and Bihar State Pollution Control Board with reference to the allegation of pollution being caused by fly ash dump set up by thermal power plant at Village Kanti Nagar, District Muzaffarpur, Bihar causing damage to the public health, animal health and ecology in the area.

The report was required to be furnished within two months vide order dated April 16, 2019. The matter was deferred in various instances due to no response filed from Bihar state PCB.

"In view of the above, case is made out for taking coercive measures as provided under Section 25 of the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 read with 51 of Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, including directing imprisonment of the Member Secretary of the State PCB or to issue arrest warrants for appearance," NGT said.

"However, before taking such measures, we give the last opportunity to the State PCB to furnish a factual and action taken report within one month."

The NGT, which was hearing a petition filed by Satyanarayan Sahni alleging that the thermal power is causing damage to the public health and ecology in the area, has listed the matter for further hearing on February 3 next year.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) warned Bihar State Pollution Control Board that it may take strict action if they failed to file its response over allegation of pollution caused by thermal power plant at Kanti Nagar village in Muzaffarpur district.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) warned Bihar State Pollution Control Board that it may take strict action if they failed to file its response over allegation of pollution caused by thermal power plant at Kanti Nagar village in Muzaffarpur district. NGT had sought a report from District Magistrate, Muzaffarpur and Bihar State Pollution Control Board with reference to the allegation of pollution being caused by fly ash dump set up by thermal power plant at Village Kanti Nagar, District Muzaffarpur, Bihar causing damage to the public health, animal health and ecology in the area. The report was required to be furnished within two months vide order dated April 16, 2019. The matter was deferred in various instances due to no response filed from Bihar state PCB. "In view of the above, case is made out for taking coercive measures as provided under Section 25 of the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 read with 51 of Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, including directing imprisonment of the Member Secretary of the State PCB or to issue arrest warrants for appearance," NGT said. "However, before taking such measures, we give the last opportunity to the State PCB to furnish a factual and action taken report within one month." The NGT, which was hearing a petition filed by Satyanarayan Sahni alleging that the thermal power is causing damage to the public health and ecology in the area, has listed the matter for further hearing on February 3 next year.

NGT warns pollution board of action; seeks response on Muzaffarpur's thermal power plant

The Centre has told the National Green Tribunal that action plan for 37 railway stations which are to be developed as "eco-smart stations" will be implemented in three months.

The Centre told a bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel that nodal officers have been identified by the railway administration to oversee the implementation of environment management systems at the 37 stations.

"They will also act as regulators for environment norms and will have authority to lay down and collect compensation on 'Polluter Pays'' principle. They will be authorised to issue receipts for the compensation so recovered. This mechanism will be put on the website," Additional Solicitor General Pinky Anand, appearing for the Railways, told the NGT.

Noting the submissions, the tribunal said that with regard to the next phase, action plans should be prepared for all the remaining major stations indicating phase-wise steps and categories of implementation.

"The action plans may have categories for number of stations for different phases but all the major stations should be covered within one year on the pattern of 37 major stations already identified."

"We also expect that de-centralised municipal solid waste plants may be set up at the identified locations in terms of Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016. The Executive Director, Environment and Health Management (ENHM), Railway Headquarters, may compile the progress of execution of action plans periodically and also lay down adverse consequences for the nodal officers or others who fail to execute the action plans within the targeted timeline by way of entry into their annual reports," the tribunal said.

It also said the Railway Board may also compile data of preparation of action plans for the remaining major stations within three months and furnish the same to the Central Pollution Control Board for analysis.

"If the CPCB finds that action plan has been duly implemented and selected railway stations are meeting the parameters of ISO 14001, such stations may be certified as eco-smart stations," the tribunal said.

The green panel had earlier said there was an urgent need for the railways to put in place an effective implementation and monitoring mechanism with provisions of fixing accountability of individuals in respect of solid waste disposal, littering of solid and plastic wastes, defecation etc.

The NGT was hearing a petition filed by lawyers Saloni Singh and Arush Pathania seeking steps to check pollution on railway properties, particularly on tracks.

The Centre has told the National Green Tribunal that action plan for 37 railway stations which are to be developed as "eco-smart stations" will be implemented in three months.

The Centre has told the National Green Tribunal that action plan for 37 railway stations which are to be developed as "eco-smart stations" will be implemented in three months. The Centre told a bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel that nodal officers have been identified by the railway administration to oversee the implementation of environment management systems at the 37 stations. "They will also act as regulators for environment norms and will have authority to lay down and collect compensation on 'Polluter Pays'' principle. They will be authorised to issue receipts for the compensation so recovered. This mechanism will be put on the website," Additional Solicitor General Pinky Anand, appearing for the Railways, told the NGT. Noting the submissions, the tribunal said that with regard to the next phase, action plans should be prepared for all the remaining major stations indicating phase-wise steps and categories of implementation. "The action plans may have categories for number of stations for different phases but all the major stations should be covered within one year on the pattern of 37 major stations already identified." "We also expect that de-centralised municipal solid waste plants may be set up at the identified locations in terms of Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016. The Executive Director, Environment and Health Management (ENHM), Railway Headquarters, may compile the progress of execution of action plans periodically and also lay down adverse consequences for the nodal officers or others who fail to execute the action plans within the targeted timeline by way of entry into their annual reports," the tribunal said. It also said the Railway Board may also compile data of preparation of action plans for the remaining major stations within three months and furnish the same to the Central Pollution Control Board for analysis. "If the CPCB finds that action plan has been duly implemented and selected railway stations are meeting the parameters of ISO 14001, such stations may be certified as eco-smart stations," the tribunal said. The green panel had earlier said there was an urgent need for the railways to put in place an effective implementation and monitoring mechanism with provisions of fixing accountability of individuals in respect of solid waste disposal, littering of solid and plastic wastes, defecation etc. The NGT was hearing a petition filed by lawyers Saloni Singh and Arush Pathania seeking steps to check pollution on railway properties, particularly on tracks.

Plan for 37 'eco-smart stations' will be implemented in 3 months: Railways to NGT

Volkswagen Group India spokesperson on Thursday stated that the automobile giant will challenge the NGT order before the Supreme Court.

The reaction came shortly after the National Green Tribunal (NGT) slapped <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/emission-fiasco-ngt-slaps-rs-500-crore-fine-on-volkswagen-201705">Rs 500 crore fine on Volkswagen</a> for damaging the environment through the use of 'cheat device' in its diesel cars.&nbsp;

Volkswagen is required to deposit the amount with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) within 2 months.

The environmental watchdog enhanced the compensation amount of Rs 171.34 crore, which was recommended by an NGT-appointed committee, as a means of "creating deterrence," news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

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The automaker, however, said that it did not violate the BS-IV norms and that the test results were based on "road testings" for which there were no prescribed standards.

The bench said, "Sustainable development is the main guiding factor... We are unable to accept the manufacturer's objections to the report," PTI reported.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

Volkswagen Group India spokesperson on Thursday stated that the automobile giant will challenge the NGT order before the Supreme Court. The reaction came shortly after the National Green Tribunal (NGT) slapped Rs 500 crore fine on Volkswagen for damaging the environment through the use of 'cheat device' in its diesel cars.

Volkswagen Group India spokesperson on Thursday stated that the automobile giant will challenge the NGT order before the Supreme Court. The reaction came shortly after the National Green Tribunal (NGT) slapped Rs 500 crore fine on Volkswagen for damaging the environment through the use of 'cheat device' in its diesel cars. Volkswagen is required to deposit the amount with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) within 2 months. The environmental watchdog enhanced the compensation amount of Rs 171.34 crore, which was recommended by an NGT-appointed committee, as a means of "creating deterrence," news agency PTI reported. Volkswagen Group India Spokesperson: The Volkswagen Group will challenge the order of the National Green Tribunal before the Supreme Court. — ANI (@ANI) March 7, 2019 × The automaker, however, said that it did not violate the BS-IV norms and that the test results were based on "road testings" for which there were no prescribed standards. The bench said, "Sustainable development is the main guiding factor... We are unable to accept the manufacturer's objections to the report," PTI reported. (With inputs from PTI)

After NGT slaps Rs 500 crore fine on Volkswagen, automobile giant to move Supreme Court

India's environmental watchdog, the National Green Tribunal (NGT), has slapped Rs 500 crore fine on German automotive company Volkswagen for damaging environment by using cheat devices in diesel cars in India.

The case relates to health damage caused by excess emissions of pollutants and emissions violations.

A bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel directed the carmaker to deposit the amount within two months.

The tribunal enhanced the compensation amount of Rs 171.34 crore, which was recommended by a NGT-appointed committee, as a means of "creating deterrence".

The automaker, however, said that it did not violate the BS-IV norms and that the test results were based on "road testings" for which there were no prescribed standards.

The bench said, "Sustainable development is the main guiding factor... We are unable to accept the manufacturer's objections to the report."

It said that the apex pollution monitoring body may consider utilising the money towards improving air quality in the National Capital Region and other highly polluted areas.

The green panel had on November 16, last year said that use of 'cheat device' by Volkswagen in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ngt-panel-orders-volkswagen-to-pay-rs-100-crore-fine-in-emissions-case-190884">diesel cars in India</a> leads to environmental damage and had directed it to deposit an interim amount of Rs 100 crore with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

It had also constituted a joint team of representatives of the CPCB, Ministry of Heavy Industries, Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, which had recommended Rs 171.34-crore fine on Volkswagen as "health damages" for causing air pollution in Delhi due to excess nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.

The expert committee in its report has estimated that Volkswagen cars released approximately 48.678 tonnes of NOx in 2016 in the national capital.

"Estimated cost of heath damage due to additional NOx emissions from the Volkswagen group vehicles is approximately Rs 171.34 crore using a metro city i.E Delhi as base. The value may be considered conservative due to lack of methodologies for calculating the overall impact of nitrogen oxide on the environment in India and hence only health damages are valued.

"Further, the valuation is for Delhi considering that the value of NOx is 435 tonnes released in the city. This is assumed because lack of data on the geographical locations and plying regions of Volkswagen vehicles which have caused the damage and for all the years which have been considered for damage," the committee has said in its report.

The panel was formed by the NGT on November 16 last year to give its opinion whether the manufacturer has exceeded the prescribed environmental norms and fair estimate of the damage caused to the environment.

The committee has told the NGT that automobiles are a major source of nitrogen oxide. The green panel had said the use of 'cheat device' by Volkswagen in diesel cars in India leads to inference of environmental damage and asked the German carmaker to deposit an interim amount of Rs 100 crore with the Central Pollution Control Board.

The tribunal was hearing pleas filed by Ailawadi, a school teacher, and a few others seeking ban on the sale of Volkswagen vehicles for alleged violation of emission norms.

A 'cheat' or 'defeat device' is a software in diesel engines to manipulate emission tests by changing the performance of the cars globally.

Volkswagen India had in December 2015 announced the recall of 3,23,700 lakh vehicles in India to fix the emission software after ARAI conducted tests on some models and found that their on-road emissions were 1.1 times to 2.6 times higher than the applicable BS-IV norms.

The automobile giant had admitted to the use of 'defeat device' in 11 million diesel engine cars sold in the US, Europe and other global markets to manipulate emission test results.

After the tests by ARAI, Volkswagen India had undertaken to rejig the software by recalling around 3.23 lakh vehicles fitted with EA 189 diesel engines which were in alleged violation of emission norms.

The company, however, had said that the recall in India was purely voluntary in nature as it did not face any charges regarding violating emission norms in India, unlike in the US.

India's environmental watchdog, the National Green Tribunal (NGT), has slapped Rs 500 crore fine on German automotive company Volkswagen for damaging environment by using cheat devices in diesel cars in India.

India's environmental watchdog, the National Green Tribunal (NGT), has slapped Rs 500 crore fine on German automotive company Volkswagen for damaging environment by using cheat devices in diesel cars in India. The case relates to health damage caused by excess emissions of pollutants and emissions violations. A bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel directed the carmaker to deposit the amount within two months. The tribunal enhanced the compensation amount of Rs 171.34 crore, which was recommended by a NGT-appointed committee, as a means of "creating deterrence". The automaker, however, said that it did not violate the BS-IV norms and that the test results were based on "road testings" for which there were no prescribed standards. The bench said, "Sustainable development is the main guiding factor... We are unable to accept the manufacturer's objections to the report." It said that the apex pollution monitoring body may consider utilising the money towards improving air quality in the National Capital Region and other highly polluted areas. The green panel had on November 16, last year said that use of 'cheat device' by Volkswagen in diesel cars in India leads to environmental damage and had directed it to deposit an interim amount of Rs 100 crore with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). It had also constituted a joint team of representatives of the CPCB, Ministry of Heavy Industries, Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, which had recommended Rs 171.34-crore fine on Volkswagen as "health damages" for causing air pollution in Delhi due to excess nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The expert committee in its report has estimated that Volkswagen cars released approximately 48.678 tonnes of NOx in 2016 in the national capital. "Estimated cost of heath damage due to additional NOx emissions from the Volkswagen group vehicles is approximately Rs 171.34 crore using a metro city i.E Delhi as base. The value may be considered conservative due to lack of methodologies for calculating the overall impact of nitrogen oxide on the environment in India and hence only health damages are valued. "Further, the valuation is for Delhi considering that the value of NOx is 435 tonnes released in the city. This is assumed because lack of data on the geographical locations and plying regions of Volkswagen vehicles which have caused the damage and for all the years which have been considered for damage," the committee has said in its report. The panel was formed by the NGT on November 16 last year to give its opinion whether the manufacturer has exceeded the prescribed environmental norms and fair estimate of the damage caused to the environment. The committee has told the NGT that automobiles are a major source of nitrogen oxide. The green panel had said the use of 'cheat device' by Volkswagen in diesel cars in India leads to inference of environmental damage and asked the German carmaker to deposit an interim amount of Rs 100 crore with the Central Pollution Control Board. The tribunal was hearing pleas filed by Ailawadi, a school teacher, and a few others seeking ban on the sale of Volkswagen vehicles for alleged violation of emission norms. A 'cheat' or 'defeat device' is a software in diesel engines to manipulate emission tests by changing the performance of the cars globally. Volkswagen India had in December 2015 announced the recall of 3,23,700 lakh vehicles in India to fix the emission software after ARAI conducted tests on some models and found that their on-road emissions were 1.1 times to 2.6 times higher than the applicable BS-IV norms. The automobile giant had admitted to the use of 'defeat device' in 11 million diesel engine cars sold in the US, Europe and other global markets to manipulate emission test results. After the tests by ARAI, Volkswagen India had undertaken to rejig the software by recalling around 3.23 lakh vehicles fitted with EA 189 diesel engines which were in alleged violation of emission norms. The company, however, had said that the recall in India was purely voluntary in nature as it did not face any charges regarding violating emission norms in India, unlike in the US.

Emission fiasco: NGT slaps Rs 500 crore fine on Volkswagen

The Madras High Court Friday declined to grant any interim relief to Vedanta group's Sterlite for carrying out maintenance work at its closed copper smelter unit in Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu.

Hearing a petition by the company challenging the closure order, a division bench of justices M Sathyanarayanan and M Nirmal Kumar, however, cautioned the state government, under whose control the unit was now, it would be held responsible in the event of any mishap or environmental damage.

It recorded an undertaking given by Advocate General Vijay Narayan, who appeared for the government, that the state would take all such responsibility and posted the matter to March 27 for further hearing.

The bench also directed the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) to file its reply by then.

Sterlite in its petition, filed in line with the Supreme Court's recent suggestion, has challenged the May 23, 2018 orders of TNPCB refusing renewal of consent to the plant as well as permanent closure, terming them as wholly illegal, unconstitutional and ultra vires.

The state government ordered the permanent closure in the wake of violent protests against Sterlite that led to the killing of 13 people in police firing on May 22 on a huge crowd in Tuticorin.

The locals were protesting against environment pollution being allegedly caused by the factory.

The apex court on February 18 had set aside the order of the National Green Tribunal allowing opening of the copper unit but gave the liberty to the company to approach the high court against the closure order.

A bench of justices R F Nariman and Navin Sinha had said if such a petition is filed by the company, it can seek an interim relief considering the fact that their plant at Tuticorin has been shut down since April 9, 2018.&nbsp;

Accordingly, the company moved the high court Wednesday.

When the petition came up for hearing, senior counsel Aryama Sundaram, who appeared for Sterlite, contended that there had been a motivated political campaign against the company from its inception in 1996.

The factory had been functioning with consent orders, including permission from the Ministry of Environment and Forest for expansion, he submitted.

In view of the company securing the nod for expansion, the protests were held, leading to violence and police firing. This was the reason for the closure of the factory, he said.&nbsp;

The counsel said the TNPCB had refused to renew the consent citing what he called five untenable reasons. This was followed by another four orders and six other consequential orders before the final closure of the factory.

Sundaram said the unit was now under the control of the District Collector, who has no technical know-how to maintain the factory.

Therefore, till the high court decided on the present petition, the management should be permitted to open the administrative wing for the limited purpose of taking care and maintenance of the factory since its condition was in a bad shape, the counsel said.

The management will give an undertaking that no production work would be taken up, he added.

It was also argued on behalf of Sterlite by two other senior counsels that if the company loses its case, it may shift the unit elsewhere but till then the property should be protected.

They submitted a running factory cannot be closed unless there was a finding that it causes pollution.

Countering the submissions, senior counsel C S Vaidyanathan for TNPCB submitted that the state government officials had all the knowledge and expertise to take care of maintenance and that the state would be responsible for any problems.

Counsels for impleading petitioners claimed that the factory caused air and water pollution affecting 10,000 people in the locality and their lives were at stake. 
 
 
 
&nbsp;

The Madras High Court Friday declined to grant any interim relief to Vedanta group's Sterlite for carrying out maintenance work at its closed copper smelter unit in Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu.

The Madras High Court Friday declined to grant any interim relief to Vedanta group's Sterlite for carrying out maintenance work at its closed copper smelter unit in Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu. Hearing a petition by the company challenging the closure order, a division bench of justices M Sathyanarayanan and M Nirmal Kumar, however, cautioned the state government, under whose control the unit was now, it would be held responsible in the event of any mishap or environmental damage. It recorded an undertaking given by Advocate General Vijay Narayan, who appeared for the government, that the state would take all such responsibility and posted the matter to March 27 for further hearing. The bench also directed the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) to file its reply by then. Sterlite in its petition, filed in line with the Supreme Court's recent suggestion, has challenged the May 23, 2018 orders of TNPCB refusing renewal of consent to the plant as well as permanent closure, terming them as wholly illegal, unconstitutional and ultra vires. The state government ordered the permanent closure in the wake of violent protests against Sterlite that led to the killing of 13 people in police firing on May 22 on a huge crowd in Tuticorin. The locals were protesting against environment pollution being allegedly caused by the factory. The apex court on February 18 had set aside the order of the National Green Tribunal allowing opening of the copper unit but gave the liberty to the company to approach the high court against the closure order. A bench of justices R F Nariman and Navin Sinha had said if such a petition is filed by the company, it can seek an interim relief considering the fact that their plant at Tuticorin has been shut down since April 9, 2018. Accordingly, the company moved the high court Wednesday. When the petition came up for hearing, senior counsel Aryama Sundaram, who appeared for Sterlite, contended that there had been a motivated political campaign against the company from its inception in 1996. The factory had been functioning with consent orders, including permission from the Ministry of Environment and Forest for expansion, he submitted. In view of the company securing the nod for expansion, the protests were held, leading to violence and police firing. This was the reason for the closure of the factory, he said. The counsel said the TNPCB had refused to renew the consent citing what he called five untenable reasons. This was followed by another four orders and six other consequential orders before the final closure of the factory. Sundaram said the unit was now under the control of the District Collector, who has no technical know-how to maintain the factory. Therefore, till the high court decided on the present petition, the management should be permitted to open the administrative wing for the limited purpose of taking care and maintenance of the factory since its condition was in a bad shape, the counsel said. The management will give an undertaking that no production work would be taken up, he added. It was also argued on behalf of Sterlite by two other senior counsels that if the company loses its case, it may shift the unit elsewhere but till then the property should be protected. They submitted a running factory cannot be closed unless there was a finding that it causes pollution. Countering the submissions, senior counsel C S Vaidyanathan for TNPCB submitted that the state government officials had all the knowledge and expertise to take care of maintenance and that the state would be responsible for any problems. Counsels for impleading petitioners claimed that the factory caused air and water pollution affecting 10,000 people in the locality and their lives were at stake.

Madras High Court declines interim relief to Sterlite

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-refuses-to-stay-ngt-order-to-reopen-sterlite-plant-188983">Supreme Court </a>on Monday set&nbsp;aside the December 15 order of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) allowing the reopening of the Vedanta-owned&nbsp;Sterlite plant in Tamil Nadu's&nbsp;Tuticorin.

The court told Vedanta and the Tamil Nadu government that they could take the issue up with the Madras High Court.

A bench headed by Justice RF Nariman said the NGT did not have the jurisdiction to order the reopening of the plant.

The court was hearing a plea by Vedanta group seeking a direction to Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board to implement the NGT order which had set aside the government's decision to close the plant.

Meanwhile, the&nbsp;Supreme Court has asked the Central Bureau of Investigation to&nbsp;conduct a fair and impartial investigation into the police firing that killed 13 persons.

On&nbsp;December 15, the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-government-approaches-supreme-court-challenging-ngt-order-of-reopening-sterlite-plant-187859">NGT had set aside</a> the Tamil Nadu government's order for closure of mining company Vedanta Ltd’s Sterlite copper plant at Tuticorin saying it was “non-sustainable" and “unjustified".

The Tamil Nadu government had, on May 28, ordered the state pollution control board to seal and “permanently" close the mining group’s copper plant following violent protests over pollution concerns.

At least <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-vedanta-protesters-killed-by-shots-to-head-chest-half-from-behind-autopsies-185867">13 people were killed</a> and several injured on May 22 last year when police opened fire on a large crowd of people protesting against the plant due to the&nbsp;environmental pollution allegedly caused by the plant.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Supreme Court on Monday set aside the December 15 order of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) allowing the reopening of the Vedanta-owned Sterlite plant in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin.

The Supreme Court on Monday set aside the December 15 order of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) allowing the reopening of the Vedanta-owned Sterlite plant in Tamil Nadu's Tuticorin. The court told Vedanta and the Tamil Nadu government that they could take the issue up with the Madras High Court. A bench headed by Justice RF Nariman said the NGT did not have the jurisdiction to order the reopening of the plant. The court was hearing a plea by Vedanta group seeking a direction to Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board to implement the NGT order which had set aside the government's decision to close the plant. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has asked the Central Bureau of Investigation to conduct a fair and impartial investigation into the police firing that killed 13 persons. On December 15, the NGT had set aside the Tamil Nadu government's order for closure of mining company Vedanta Ltd’s Sterlite copper plant at Tuticorin saying it was “non-sustainable" and “unjustified". The Tamil Nadu government had, on May 28, ordered the state pollution control board to seal and “permanently" close the mining group’s copper plant following violent protests over pollution concerns. At least 13 people were killed and several injured on May 22 last year when police opened fire on a large crowd of people protesting against the plant due to the environmental pollution allegedly caused by the plant. (With inputs from agencies)

Vedanta Sterlite plant: Supreme Court sets aside NGT order allowing its reopening

The Supreme Court on Monday asked the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to consider whether to widen the scope of scrutiny into compliance of all car manufacturers with the emission norms, as German auto major Volkswagen has challenged a punitive action of the tribunal.

A bench, headed by Justice D Y Chandrachud, said that there was no occasion to take punitive action against the directors of Volkswagen for the delay in depositing of Rs 100 crore fine to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), as it had already extended the deadline.

The NGT had on January 17 imposed a penalty of Rs 100 crore on Volkswagen, saying its cars were violating the pollution norms.

A four-member committee constituted by the NGT had recommended a fine of Rs 171.34 crore on Volkswagen for excess nitrogen oxide emissions.

The committee in its report had estimated that Volkswagen cars allegedly released 48.678 tonnes of NO in 2016 in the National Capital Region.

The Volkswagen Group challenged the NGT’s fine, contending that all its cars are "compliant with emission norms in India."Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Volkswagen, told the apex court bench that the company had deposited the amount of Rs 100 crore on January 17 as directed by the NGT.

The tribunal had said that non-compliance can lead to the arrest of the company's India head.

“We would like to clarify that intent and purpose of this court in December extending time for compliance was to ensure that until this court took up the matter on next date, the coercive measure cannot be taken for non-compliance of the order,” said the Supreme Court bench.

It asked the NGT to include Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in a four-member committee appointed by the expert panel.

The NGT had constituted a joint team of representatives of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Ministry of Heavy Industries, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute.

The tribunal had asked for a report on whether Volkswagen has exceeded the prescribed environmental norms and fair estimate of the damage caused to the environment.

The Supreme Court also noted that the committee had submitted its report and proceedings are now pending before the NGT. The bench said it is now proper for the tribunal to deal with the report on merits.

The tribunal’s order had come on pleas filed by a school teacher, Saloni Ailawadi, and a few others seeking a ban on the sale of Volkswagen vehicles for alleged violation of emission norms.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Monday asked the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to consider whether to widen the scope of scrutiny into compliance of all car manufacturers with the emission norms, as German auto major Volkswagen has challenged a punitive action of the tribunal.

The Supreme Court on Monday asked the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to consider whether to widen the scope of scrutiny into compliance of all car manufacturers with the emission norms, as German auto major Volkswagen has challenged a punitive action of the tribunal. A bench, headed by Justice D Y Chandrachud, said that there was no occasion to take punitive action against the directors of Volkswagen for the delay in depositing of Rs 100 crore fine to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), as it had already extended the deadline. The NGT had on January 17 imposed a penalty of Rs 100 crore on Volkswagen, saying its cars were violating the pollution norms. A four-member committee constituted by the NGT had recommended a fine of Rs 171.34 crore on Volkswagen for excess nitrogen oxide emissions. The committee in its report had estimated that Volkswagen cars allegedly released 48.678 tonnes of NO in 2016 in the National Capital Region. The Volkswagen Group challenged the NGT’s fine, contending that all its cars are "compliant with emission norms in India."Senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, appearing for Volkswagen, told the apex court bench that the company had deposited the amount of Rs 100 crore on January 17 as directed by the NGT. The tribunal had said that non-compliance can lead to the arrest of the company's India head. “We would like to clarify that intent and purpose of this court in December extending time for compliance was to ensure that until this court took up the matter on next date, the coercive measure cannot be taken for non-compliance of the order,” said the Supreme Court bench. It asked the NGT to include Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in a four-member committee appointed by the expert panel. The NGT had constituted a joint team of representatives of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Ministry of Heavy Industries, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute. The tribunal had asked for a report on whether Volkswagen has exceeded the prescribed environmental norms and fair estimate of the damage caused to the environment. The Supreme Court also noted that the committee had submitted its report and proceedings are now pending before the NGT. The bench said it is now proper for the tribunal to deal with the report on merits. The tribunal’s order had come on pleas filed by a school teacher, Saloni Ailawadi, and a few others seeking a ban on the sale of Volkswagen vehicles for alleged violation of emission norms.

Supreme Court asks NGT to widen scrutiny into emission violations by car manufacturers

Volkswagen India said Thursday that its cars are compliant with Indian emission norms but that it would still pay the Rs 100 crore fine the National Green Tribunal had ordered it to.&nbsp;

The NGT had on Thursday ordered Volkswagen to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ngt-panel-orders-volkswagen-to-pay-rs-100-crore-fine-in-emissions-case-190884">pay the Rs 100 crore fine within 24 hours</a>, failing which its directors would be arrested and its properties seized.&nbsp;

‘The Volkswagen Group reiterates that all cars from the Group are compliant with the emission norms in India. The order of the Honourable NGT is already under challenge before the Honourable Supreme Court. However, The Volkswagen Group India will comply with the order of Honourable National Green Tribunal (NGT) and deposit the money, as directed,” Volkswagen said in a statement on Thursday.&nbsp;

The NGT had on Thursday slammed Volkswagen for not depositing the Rs 100 crore imposed on the German auto major for damaging the environment through the use of a "cheat device" in its diesel cars, and directed it to submit the amount within 24 hours failing which its directors would be sent to jail.

The green panel had on November 16, 2018&nbsp;said that the use of the "cheat device" by Volkswagen in diesel cars in India leads to inference of environmental damage and directed it to deposit an interim amount of Rs 100 crore with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

It had also stated the deposit was only an interim measure and constituted a joint team of representatives of the CPCB, Ministry of Heavy Industries, Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and National Environmental Engineering Research Institute.

The four-member committee has also recommended Rs 171.34-crore fine on Volkswagen as "health damages" for causing air pollution in Delhi due to excess nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.

On Thursday, a bench headed by NGT chairperson Adarsh Kumar Goel took strong exception to the non-compliance of its order by the automobile giant and asked it to give an undertaking that it will submit the amount by 5PM Friday.

"Why have you not complied with our order when there is no stay. We will not give you any further time. You are in default. If you do not deposit the amount, we will order arrest and detention of your directors," the bench, comprising Justice SP Wangdi, said while asking Volkswagen to submit an affidavit of compliance after depositing the amount.&nbsp;

A "cheat" or "defeat device" is a software in diesel engines to manipulate emission tests by changing the performance of the cars globally.

Volkswagen India had in December 2015 announced the recall of 3,23,700 lakh vehicles in India to fix the emission software after ARAI conducted tests on some models and found that their on-road emissions were 1.1 times to 2.6 times higher than the applicable BS-IV norms.

The automobile giant had admitted to the use of "cheat devices" in 11 million diesel engine cars sold in the US, Europe and other global markets to manipulate emission test results.

After the tests by ARAI, Volkswagen India had undertaken to rejig the software by recalling around 3.23 lakh vehicles fitted with EA 189 diesel engines which were in alleged violation of emission norms.

The company, however, had said that the recall in India was purely voluntary in nature as it did not face any charges regarding violating emission norms in India, unlike in the US.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

Volkswagen India said Thursday that its cars are compliant with Indian emission norms but that it would still pay the Rs 100 crore fine the National Green Tribunal had ordered it to.

Volkswagen India said Thursday that its cars are compliant with Indian emission norms but that it would still pay the Rs 100 crore fine the National Green Tribunal had ordered it to. The NGT had on Thursday ordered Volkswagen to pay the Rs 100 crore fine within 24 hours, failing which its directors would be arrested and its properties seized. ‘The Volkswagen Group reiterates that all cars from the Group are compliant with the emission norms in India. The order of the Honourable NGT is already under challenge before the Honourable Supreme Court. However, The Volkswagen Group India will comply with the order of Honourable National Green Tribunal (NGT) and deposit the money, as directed,” Volkswagen said in a statement on Thursday. The NGT had on Thursday slammed Volkswagen for not depositing the Rs 100 crore imposed on the German auto major for damaging the environment through the use of a "cheat device" in its diesel cars, and directed it to submit the amount within 24 hours failing which its directors would be sent to jail. The green panel had on November 16, 2018 said that the use of the "cheat device" by Volkswagen in diesel cars in India leads to inference of environmental damage and directed it to deposit an interim amount of Rs 100 crore with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). It had also stated the deposit was only an interim measure and constituted a joint team of representatives of the CPCB, Ministry of Heavy Industries, Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and National Environmental Engineering Research Institute. The four-member committee has also recommended Rs 171.34-crore fine on Volkswagen as "health damages" for causing air pollution in Delhi due to excess nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. On Thursday, a bench headed by NGT chairperson Adarsh Kumar Goel took strong exception to the non-compliance of its order by the automobile giant and asked it to give an undertaking that it will submit the amount by 5PM Friday. "Why have you not complied with our order when there is no stay. We will not give you any further time. You are in default. If you do not deposit the amount, we will order arrest and detention of your directors," the bench, comprising Justice SP Wangdi, said while asking Volkswagen to submit an affidavit of compliance after depositing the amount. A "cheat" or "defeat device" is a software in diesel engines to manipulate emission tests by changing the performance of the cars globally. Volkswagen India had in December 2015 announced the recall of 3,23,700 lakh vehicles in India to fix the emission software after ARAI conducted tests on some models and found that their on-road emissions were 1.1 times to 2.6 times higher than the applicable BS-IV norms. The automobile giant had admitted to the use of "cheat devices" in 11 million diesel engine cars sold in the US, Europe and other global markets to manipulate emission test results. After the tests by ARAI, Volkswagen India had undertaken to rejig the software by recalling around 3.23 lakh vehicles fitted with EA 189 diesel engines which were in alleged violation of emission norms. The company, however, had said that the recall in India was purely voluntary in nature as it did not face any charges regarding violating emission norms in India, unlike in the US. (With inputs from PTI)

Volkswagen India says it will pay Rs 100 crore fine it was ordered to cough up within 24 hours

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to stay the green tribunal's order of setting aside the Tamil Nadu government's decision to close Vedanta's Sterlite copper plant at Tuticorin.

A bench, headed by Justice R F Nariman, sought response from Vedanta on the state government's appeal against the National Green Tribunal's (NGT's) order to reopen the plant.

The state had moved the top court, saying that the NGT had "erroneously" set aside various orders passed by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) last year with regard to the Sterlite plant.

It had said the tribunal had consequentially directed the TNPCB to pass fresh orders of renewal of consent and issue authorisation to handle hazardous substances to the Vedanta Limited.

On December 15, the NGT had set aside the state government's order for closure of the Sterlite copper plant, saying it was "non sustainable" and "unjustified".

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to stay the green tribunal's order of setting aside the Tamil Nadu government's decision to close Vedanta's Sterlite copper plant at Tuticorin.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to stay the green tribunal's order of setting aside the Tamil Nadu government's decision to close Vedanta's Sterlite copper plant at Tuticorin. A bench, headed by Justice R F Nariman, sought response from Vedanta on the state government's appeal against the National Green Tribunal's (NGT's) order to reopen the plant. The state had moved the top court, saying that the NGT had "erroneously" set aside various orders passed by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) last year with regard to the Sterlite plant. It had said the tribunal had consequentially directed the TNPCB to pass fresh orders of renewal of consent and issue authorisation to handle hazardous substances to the Vedanta Limited. On December 15, the NGT had set aside the state government's order for closure of the Sterlite copper plant, saying it was "non sustainable" and "unjustified".

Supreme Court refuses to stay NGT's order to reopen Sterlite plant

The National Green Tribunal Friday imposed a fine of whopping Rs 100 crore on the Meghalaya government for its <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-miners-rescue-supreme-court-asks-centre-meghalaya-govt-to-file-status-report-188208">failure to curb illegal coal mining</a> in the state.&nbsp;

A senior advocate, who is assisting the tribunal as an amicus curiae in the matter, said a report of a high-level committee was submitted on January 2 before a bench headed by NGT chairperson A K Goel.&nbsp;

The report stated that majority of the mines in the northeastern state were operating without a lease or licence.

The Tribunal imposed Rs 100 crore fine on the state government as a "deterrent" and for its "inaction" to curb illegal mining in the northeastern state.&nbsp; 
The lawyer said during the hearing, the state government admitted that a large number of mines were operating illegally.

At least 15 miners are trapped in the 370 foot-deep illegal coal mine in Lumthari village of East Jaintia Hills district of<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-mining-tragedy-no-change-in-water-level-even-after-using-high-pressure-pumps-187811"> Meghalaya </a>since December 13 and all efforts to pump the water out of flooded mine have been in vain.

Senior advocate Raj Panjawani said the amount of the fine has to be deposited with the Central Pollution Control Board within two months.

He said the bench in its order made it clear that the amount can be recovered from illegal miners and the officials responsible for operating mines illegally.

The report of the three-member committee, headed by retired Justice B P Kakoti of Gauhati High Court, has stated that there were around 24,000 mines in Meghalaya and majority of them were operating illegally.

It added that not only were there no licences or leases, but also no environmental clearance for operation of the majority of the coal mines.

The NGT had constituted the committee in August 2018 to supervise and look into the issue of the environmental restoration plan and other connected matters in Meghalaya.

The committee was constituted during the hearing of the petition which had sought a ban on coal mining in Meghalaya. It had also taken into account some reports of the state pollution control board.

Meghalaya's advocate general Amit Kumar said he had been conveyed about the order of the NGT imposing Rs 100 crore on the state. He said the detailed order would be made available in a couple of days.&nbsp;

The National Green Tribunal had ordered an interim ban on 'rat-hole' coal mining in Meghalaya from April 17, 2014.

The latest order comes when the authorities are finding it difficult to rescue the 15 miners trapped since December 13 in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya as there is no blueprint of the 355-feet well which has a "maze of rat holes".&nbsp;

The National Green Tribunal Friday imposed a fine of whopping Rs 100 crore on the Meghalaya government for its failure to curb illegal coal mining in the state. A senior advocate, who is assisting the tribunal as an amicus curiae in the matter, said a report of a high-level committee was submitted on January 2 before a bench headed by NGT chairperson A K Goel.

The National Green Tribunal Friday imposed a fine of whopping Rs 100 crore on the Meghalaya government for its failure to curb illegal coal mining in the state. A senior advocate, who is assisting the tribunal as an amicus curiae in the matter, said a report of a high-level committee was submitted on January 2 before a bench headed by NGT chairperson A K Goel. The report stated that majority of the mines in the northeastern state were operating without a lease or licence. The Tribunal imposed Rs 100 crore fine on the state government as a "deterrent" and for its "inaction" to curb illegal mining in the northeastern state. The lawyer said during the hearing, the state government admitted that a large number of mines were operating illegally. At least 15 miners are trapped in the 370 foot-deep illegal coal mine in Lumthari village of East Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya since December 13 and all efforts to pump the water out of flooded mine have been in vain. Senior advocate Raj Panjawani said the amount of the fine has to be deposited with the Central Pollution Control Board within two months. He said the bench in its order made it clear that the amount can be recovered from illegal miners and the officials responsible for operating mines illegally. The report of the three-member committee, headed by retired Justice B P Kakoti of Gauhati High Court, has stated that there were around 24,000 mines in Meghalaya and majority of them were operating illegally. It added that not only were there no licences or leases, but also no environmental clearance for operation of the majority of the coal mines. The NGT had constituted the committee in August 2018 to supervise and look into the issue of the environmental restoration plan and other connected matters in Meghalaya. The committee was constituted during the hearing of the petition which had sought a ban on coal mining in Meghalaya. It had also taken into account some reports of the state pollution control board. Meghalaya's advocate general Amit Kumar said he had been conveyed about the order of the NGT imposing Rs 100 crore on the state. He said the detailed order would be made available in a couple of days. The National Green Tribunal had ordered an interim ban on 'rat-hole' coal mining in Meghalaya from April 17, 2014. The latest order comes when the authorities are finding it difficult to rescue the 15 miners trapped since December 13 in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya as there is no blueprint of the 355-feet well which has a "maze of rat holes".

NGT imposes Rs 100 crore fine on Meghalaya govt for failing to curb illegal mining

At least 13 people were trapped and feared dead due to flooding in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia hills district, police said Thursday.

The incident was reported to the district authorities Thursday morning and rescue efforts are on, Superintendent of Police (SP) Sylvester Nongtynger said.

"According to information received, 13 people were trapped inside an illegal coal mine at Ksan village under the jurisdiction of Saipung police station," the SP said.

The National Green Tribunal has banned unscientific and unsafe rat-hole coal mining in Meghalaya since 2014.

According to the SP, the labourers have engaged in the rat-hole coal mine near Lytein river around three days ago, and due to the overflowing of water they are all feared dead.

Water is being pumped out and efforts are on to identify the people behind the illegal mining.

A case has been registered against unknown people for their involvement in illegal mining of coal.

Disaster management Minister Kyrmen Shylla, who is also an MLA from Khliehriat constituency, said, "We are waiting for a report from the district authorities in this regard."

This is not the first time that labourers engaged in illegal mining of coal have been trapped in a mine, a police officer said.

At least 15 miners were trapped in such an illegal rat-hole coal mine near the Nangalbibra area in South Garo Hills in 2012. The bodies were never recovered, officials said.

At least 13 people were trapped and feared dead due to flooding in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia hills district, police said Thursday. The incident was reported to the district authorities Thursday morning and rescue efforts are on, Superintendent of Police (SP) Sylvester Nongtynger said.

At least 13 people were trapped and feared dead due to flooding in an illegal coal mine in Meghalaya's East Jaintia hills district, police said Thursday. The incident was reported to the district authorities Thursday morning and rescue efforts are on, Superintendent of Police (SP) Sylvester Nongtynger said. "According to information received, 13 people were trapped inside an illegal coal mine at Ksan village under the jurisdiction of Saipung police station," the SP said. The National Green Tribunal has banned unscientific and unsafe rat-hole coal mining in Meghalaya since 2014. According to the SP, the labourers have engaged in the rat-hole coal mine near Lytein river around three days ago, and due to the overflowing of water they are all feared dead. Water is being pumped out and efforts are on to identify the people behind the illegal mining. A case has been registered against unknown people for their involvement in illegal mining of coal. Disaster management Minister Kyrmen Shylla, who is also an MLA from Khliehriat constituency, said, "We are waiting for a report from the district authorities in this regard." This is not the first time that labourers engaged in illegal mining of coal have been trapped in a mine, a police officer said. At least 15 miners were trapped in such an illegal rat-hole coal mine near the Nangalbibra area in South Garo Hills in 2012. The bodies were never recovered, officials said.

Flooding in illegal coal mine in Meghalaya, 13 miners trapped, feared dead

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a fine of Rs 25 crore on the government of Delhi for failing to curb the problem of pollution in the capital city, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

According to reports, the fine is to be deducted from the salary of Delhi government officials and those polluting the environment.&nbsp;

"If Delhi government fails to pay the fine, it'll have to pay a fine of Rs.10 crore per month," ANI reported.&nbsp;

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The air quality in Delhi/NCR has seen a dipping trend in the past month with most areas recording 'poor' to 'very poor' air quality.&nbsp;

The alarmingly high rates of air pollution in the national capital have raised great concerns for the people as well as the state administration. The present levels of particulate matter in the atmosphere are sufficient to contribute towards depleting health standards and high level of toxicity in the air with dangerous gasses.

According to the Centre-run &nbsp;System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the Air Quality Index of the capital on Saturday morning was recorded 346, falling in the 'very poor' category.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a fine of Rs 25 crore on the government of Delhi for failing to curb the problem of pollution in the capital city, news agency ANI reported.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a fine of Rs 25 crore on the government of Delhi for failing to curb the problem of pollution in the capital city, news agency ANI reported. According to reports, the fine is to be deducted from the salary of Delhi government officials and those polluting the environment. "If Delhi government fails to pay the fine, it'll have to pay a fine of Rs.10 crore per month," ANI reported. NGT has imposed a fine of Rs.25 cr on Delhi Govt for failing to curb the problem of pollution in capital city. This is to be deducted from salary of Delhi Govt officials&ppl polluting environment. If Delhi Govt fails to pay the fine, it'll have to pay a fine of Rs.10 cr per month pic.twitter.com/40mcTfqHx0 — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2018 × The air quality in Delhi/NCR has seen a dipping trend in the past month with most areas recording 'poor' to 'very poor' air quality. The alarmingly high rates of air pollution in the national capital have raised great concerns for the people as well as the state administration. The present levels of particulate matter in the atmosphere are sufficient to contribute towards depleting health standards and high level of toxicity in the air with dangerous gasses. According to the Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the Air Quality Index of the capital on Saturday morning was recorded 346, falling in the 'very poor' category.

National Green Tribunal slaps Rs 25 crore fine on Delhi government over air pollution 

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has slapped Rs 5-crore fine on the West Bengal government for "failing to comply" with its two-year-old directive to improve air quality in Kolkata and Howrah.

The NGT Eastern Zone principal bench comprising Judges S P Wangdi and non-judicial member Nagin Nanda on Tuesday said the fine should be paid within two weeks of the order to the Central Pollution Control Board, failing which, the government will have to pay an additional Rs 1-crore as fine for every month's delay to the CPCB.

The order was given in the wake of West Bengal government not enforcing several measures recommended by the NGT in an earlier order in 2016 to check air pollution, the bench observed.

In the order, the NGT had recommended measures like introducing alternative mechanism to put a lid on high number of polluting diesel vehicles in the twin cities of Kolkata and Howrah, introducing remote sensing device (RSD) to monitor smoke emission, increasing number of computerised air monitoring stations from the existing ones.

The other measures include introducing the system of allowing private vehicles with odd and even registration numbers on specific days in the week, monitoring entry of non-BS 4 commercial vehicles to twin cities, stop burning of waste in dumping sites in different parts of state.

The green body in subsequent sittings in the intervening period of two years had sought to know if the West Bengal government's Environment department and the West Bengal Pollution Control Board had taken any steps towards the direction.

The NGT had passed the 2016 order on the basis of a report submitted by an expert committee but environmentalist Subhas Datta had moved a contempt petition recently which led to imposition of the fine by the tribunal.

The NGT on Tuesday also directed the West Bengal chief secretary to file an affidavit by January 8, 2019 regarding the follow-up action plan and payment of fine.

Environmentalist S M Ghosh said this was the culmination of a 20-year-old battle by environmentalists with a writ petition on health hazard caused by pollution first filed in 1999 at the Calcutta high court by him, another petition on the same issue filed by environmentalist Subhas Dutta in HC in 2006 and the case being transferred to NGT East bench in 2014.&nbsp;

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has slapped Rs 5-crore fine on the West Bengal government for "failing to comply" with its two-year-old directive to improve air quality in Kolkata and Howrah.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has slapped Rs 5-crore fine on the West Bengal government for "failing to comply" with its two-year-old directive to improve air quality in Kolkata and Howrah. The NGT Eastern Zone principal bench comprising Judges S P Wangdi and non-judicial member Nagin Nanda on Tuesday said the fine should be paid within two weeks of the order to the Central Pollution Control Board, failing which, the government will have to pay an additional Rs 1-crore as fine for every month's delay to the CPCB. The order was given in the wake of West Bengal government not enforcing several measures recommended by the NGT in an earlier order in 2016 to check air pollution, the bench observed. In the order, the NGT had recommended measures like introducing alternative mechanism to put a lid on high number of polluting diesel vehicles in the twin cities of Kolkata and Howrah, introducing remote sensing device (RSD) to monitor smoke emission, increasing number of computerised air monitoring stations from the existing ones. The other measures include introducing the system of allowing private vehicles with odd and even registration numbers on specific days in the week, monitoring entry of non-BS 4 commercial vehicles to twin cities, stop burning of waste in dumping sites in different parts of state. The green body in subsequent sittings in the intervening period of two years had sought to know if the West Bengal government's Environment department and the West Bengal Pollution Control Board had taken any steps towards the direction. The NGT had passed the 2016 order on the basis of a report submitted by an expert committee but environmentalist Subhas Datta had moved a contempt petition recently which led to imposition of the fine by the tribunal. The NGT on Tuesday also directed the West Bengal chief secretary to file an affidavit by January 8, 2019 regarding the follow-up action plan and payment of fine. Environmentalist S M Ghosh said this was the culmination of a 20-year-old battle by environmentalists with a writ petition on health hazard caused by pollution first filed in 1999 at the Calcutta high court by him, another petition on the same issue filed by environmentalist Subhas Dutta in HC in 2006 and the case being transferred to NGT East bench in 2014.

NGT slaps Rs 5 crore fine on West Bengal government for failing to curb air pollution

Following light rainfall in parts of the national capital, air quality of the region has witnessed a significant improvement. The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi jumped from to 'poor' category on Friday from 'very poor' on Thursday.

According to Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the overall air quality of Delhi docked at 235 in the morning. The weather in the region will be mostly sunny with daytime temperature reaching 26-degree celsius. Night time temperature is expected to be 14-degree Celsius. Humidity will be around 73 per cent with a wind speed of 10 kilometres per hour, while visibility will be around 1.2 kilometres throughout the day.

Notably, an AQI between the range of 0-50 is considered good, the range between 51 to 100 is marked as satisfactory and 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 comes under the category of poor and 401 -500 severe and beyond 500 is contemplated as hazardous.

At Dhirpur, the AQI was 143 at 8:45 am, while in Mathura Road area it improved to 'Moderate' category at 136. Furthermore, AQI near Pitampura, Airport Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 143, 159 and 143 respectively.

The air quality of the capital has improved significantly after the drop in crop residue burning on Thursday. According to SAFAR, the stubble burning fire accounted for only 3 per cent of the pollution, the lowest for this month.

"Air quality improved significantly due to sufficient rainfall earlier night due to washing away effect. Surface wind speed moderately increased but pollution level declined faster than expected as still weather conditions are not completely favourable except sporadic rain. This implies that air is lighter and free path increased to allow faster dispersion. in addition to cleaning by rain, it also tend to suggest that accumulative emission loading is relatively less. Stubble fire is almost negligible. The AQI is likley to remain in poor range tomorrow but slip back to 'very poor 'range thereafter," SAFAR added.

Speaking to ANI, Nitin Kaushik, a fitness enthusiast, said, "The pollution level in Delhi has significantly come down due to the rain. I am happy that now I will be able to walk and cycle in the morning. Earlier, the situation was worse, I was not able to see the nearby building clearly due to smog. More people are now coming out for morning walks and exercise".

However, residents suffering from respiratory diseases have been adviced by SAFAR to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. They have also been asked to take more breaks and do less intense activities. Asthmatics must keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients must consult a doctor, in case of palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue.

In an attempt to bring the air quality to a satisfactory level, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday issued an order to all the states to adopt a multi-method approach through in situ and ex-situ management of crop burning residue. It also directed the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre to "disburse funds well in time" so that "states can utilise it properly".

As per the directives issued by the NGT, the Chief Secretaries of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh held a two-hour long meeting with members of the green panel. Representatives from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, the Central Pollution Control Board and the Union Secretary Agriculture were also present at the meeting.

Following light rainfall in parts of the national capital, air quality of the region has witnessed a significant improvement. The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi jumped from to 'poor' category on Friday from 'very poor' on Thursday.

Following light rainfall in parts of the national capital, air quality of the region has witnessed a significant improvement. The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi jumped from to 'poor' category on Friday from 'very poor' on Thursday. According to Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the overall air quality of Delhi docked at 235 in the morning. The weather in the region will be mostly sunny with daytime temperature reaching 26-degree celsius. Night time temperature is expected to be 14-degree Celsius. Humidity will be around 73 per cent with a wind speed of 10 kilometres per hour, while visibility will be around 1.2 kilometres throughout the day. Notably, an AQI between the range of 0-50 is considered good, the range between 51 to 100 is marked as satisfactory and 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 comes under the category of poor and 401 -500 severe and beyond 500 is contemplated as hazardous. At Dhirpur, the AQI was 143 at 8:45 am, while in Mathura Road area it improved to 'Moderate' category at 136. Furthermore, AQI near Pitampura, Airport Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 143, 159 and 143 respectively. The air quality of the capital has improved significantly after the drop in crop residue burning on Thursday. According to SAFAR, the stubble burning fire accounted for only 3 per cent of the pollution, the lowest for this month. "Air quality improved significantly due to sufficient rainfall earlier night due to washing away effect. Surface wind speed moderately increased but pollution level declined faster than expected as still weather conditions are not completely favourable except sporadic rain. This implies that air is lighter and free path increased to allow faster dispersion. in addition to cleaning by rain, it also tend to suggest that accumulative emission loading is relatively less. Stubble fire is almost negligible. The AQI is likley to remain in poor range tomorrow but slip back to 'very poor 'range thereafter," SAFAR added. Speaking to ANI, Nitin Kaushik, a fitness enthusiast, said, "The pollution level in Delhi has significantly come down due to the rain. I am happy that now I will be able to walk and cycle in the morning. Earlier, the situation was worse, I was not able to see the nearby building clearly due to smog. More people are now coming out for morning walks and exercise". However, residents suffering from respiratory diseases have been adviced by SAFAR to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. They have also been asked to take more breaks and do less intense activities. Asthmatics must keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients must consult a doctor, in case of palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue. In an attempt to bring the air quality to a satisfactory level, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday issued an order to all the states to adopt a multi-method approach through in situ and ex-situ management of crop burning residue. It also directed the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre to "disburse funds well in time" so that "states can utilise it properly". As per the directives issued by the NGT, the Chief Secretaries of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh held a two-hour long meeting with members of the green panel. Representatives from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, the Central Pollution Control Board and the Union Secretary Agriculture were also present at the meeting.

Delhi's air quality eases significantly, but relief temporary

The Waste-to-Energy Plants at Okhla, Ghazipur and Bawana in the national capital are not complying with emission standards and are causing air pollution, a committee has informed the National Green Tribunal.

A joint inspection committee of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) told a bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice A K Goel that the three plants are non-compliant with respect to the standards of the particulate matter emitted by them.&nbsp;

Taking note of the report, the green panel said if the project proponents fail to maintain the standards, even after rectifying the deficiencies noticed in the joint inspection report, the Central Pollution Control Board may recommend imposition of fine for the environmental damage caused by them.&nbsp;

The NGT also directed the CPCB to send a copy of its report to the project proponents of Okhla, Ghazipur and Bawana Waste-to-Energy Plant for compliance and conduct another inspection within a month in view of the fact that the earlier inspection was carried out in February.&nbsp;

"We do not find any ground to accept the prayer for relieving the Central Pollution Control Board of its requirement in monthly monitoring. If there is a manpower constraint, it is for the CPCB to make any other appropriate arrangement for discharging its functions. This cannot be a ground to avoid responsibility under the binding directions of this tribunal," the bench said.

The tribunal had earlier directed the Delhi government and the civic bodies to submit an action plan for identifying alternative landfill sites and setting up waste-to-energy plants in the city.

It had said it was unfortunate that at a time when the national capital was grappling with the huge quantum of waste to the tune of 14,000 metric tonnes on a daily basis, the authorities were involved in a "blame game" and showing an irresponsible attitude.

With the rapid development and massive urbanisation of the metropolis, the waste generation was increasing on a daily basis which has resulted in the saturation of the existing landfill sites which can handle only up to 7,000 metric tonnes of waste, the tribunal had said.

The Waste-to-Energy Plants at Okhla, Ghazipur and Bawana in the national capital are not complying with emission standards and are causing air pollution, a committee has informed the National Green Tribunal.

The Waste-to-Energy Plants at Okhla, Ghazipur and Bawana in the national capital are not complying with emission standards and are causing air pollution, a committee has informed the National Green Tribunal. A joint inspection committee of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) told a bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice A K Goel that the three plants are non-compliant with respect to the standards of the particulate matter emitted by them. Taking note of the report, the green panel said if the project proponents fail to maintain the standards, even after rectifying the deficiencies noticed in the joint inspection report, the Central Pollution Control Board may recommend imposition of fine for the environmental damage caused by them. The NGT also directed the CPCB to send a copy of its report to the project proponents of Okhla, Ghazipur and Bawana Waste-to-Energy Plant for compliance and conduct another inspection within a month in view of the fact that the earlier inspection was carried out in February. "We do not find any ground to accept the prayer for relieving the Central Pollution Control Board of its requirement in monthly monitoring. If there is a manpower constraint, it is for the CPCB to make any other appropriate arrangement for discharging its functions. This cannot be a ground to avoid responsibility under the binding directions of this tribunal," the bench said. The tribunal had earlier directed the Delhi government and the civic bodies to submit an action plan for identifying alternative landfill sites and setting up waste-to-energy plants in the city. It had said it was unfortunate that at a time when the national capital was grappling with the huge quantum of waste to the tune of 14,000 metric tonnes on a daily basis, the authorities were involved in a "blame game" and showing an irresponsible attitude. With the rapid development and massive urbanisation of the metropolis, the waste generation was increasing on a daily basis which has resulted in the saturation of the existing landfill sites which can handle only up to 7,000 metric tonnes of waste, the tribunal had said.

Three waste-to-energy plants in Delhi causing pollution, NGT orders fresh inspection

An NGO Akhand Bharat Morcha has filed a petition&nbsp;in the National Green Tribunal seeking a ban on the use of loudspeakers in Mosques.

The NGT has sought a response on the matter from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), police and others by June 26.

The request for the ban has been initiated to put a restriction on the alleged noise pollution caused by the use of loudspeakers in the area.

The NGO said that the illegal use of the loudspeakers at mosques adversely affected the health of people living in the area. It also added that these places of worship were located in silent zones housing schools and hospitals and noise from their loudspeakers surpassed the specified decibel levels.

The plea also said that the &nbsp;activities of some mosques were in violation of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000.

It also said that the authorities have not taken any action in the matter despite several complaints.

The petition also referred to the NGT's September 2017 order which directed the Delhi government and the DPCC to ensure that religious places in East Delhi followed the guidelines issued to keep a check on noise pollution.

The NGT has sought a response on the matter from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), police and others by June 26

An NGO Akhand Bharat Morcha has filed a petition in the National Green Tribunal seeking a ban on the use of loudspeakers in Mosques. The NGT has sought a response on the matter from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), police and others by June 26. The request for the ban has been initiated to put a restriction on the alleged noise pollution caused by the use of loudspeakers in the area. The NGO said that the illegal use of the loudspeakers at mosques adversely affected the health of people living in the area. It also added that these places of worship were located in silent zones housing schools and hospitals and noise from their loudspeakers surpassed the specified decibel levels. The plea also said that the activities of some mosques were in violation of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. It also said that the authorities have not taken any action in the matter despite several complaints. The petition also referred to the NGT's September 2017 order which directed the Delhi government and the DPCC to ensure that religious places in East Delhi followed the guidelines issued to keep a check on noise pollution.

Plea seeking ban on loudspeakers from mosques filed in NGT

The National Green Tribunal has directed the Delhi government and the civic bodies to submit within two weeks an action plan for identifying alternative landfill sites and setting up waste-to-energy plants in the city.

A bench headed by Justice Jawad Rahim slammed the authorities for not submitting their plan and said despite specific timeline, there is a lapse in compliance of the direction on creating management facilities for construction and debris waste, plastic and e-waste.

&quot;We had directed the chief secretary to coordinate and ensure corporations must meet and resolve dispute by a decision which should crystallise into action plan on the above issues. They were directed to file result action plan.

&quot;Till now the action plan has not been filed. Hence, we direct it should be filed within two weeks from now and we give them a last chance to comply with the order. In case of any lapse on part of any authority, we shall hold the commissioner of each municipal corporation responsible and we further direct the chief secretary to comply with the directions,&quot; the bench said.

The tribunal took exception to the submission of South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) that the order for filing action plan was not available on the website due to which they could not do the needful.

However, the bench said, &quot;The order speaks for itself it was not confined only to SDMC, but the direction involved all the municipal corporations. Therefore such a plea is not unacceptable&quot;.

The green panel directed the Central Pollution Control Board to comply with the order and also ensure steps are taken for compliance of this order.

The matter is posted for next hearing on March 15.

The tribunal had earlier convened a meeting of stakeholders for identifying alternative landfill sites and setting up waste-to-energy plants in the national capital.

The NGT had said that it was unfortunate that at a time when the national capital was grappling with the huge quantum of waste to the tune of 14,000 metric tonnes on a daily basis, the authorities were involved in a &quot;blame game&quot; and showing an irresponsible attitude.

With the rapid development and massive urbanisation of the megacity, the waste generation was increasing on a daily basis which has resulted in the saturation of the existing landfill sites which can handle only up to 7,000 metric tonnes of waste, the tribunal had said.

&quot;The improper handling of municipal waste dumped at the sites has even resulted in the deaths of two people,&quot; the NGT had said.

It had asked the public authorities to make concerted efforts to deal with the problem of waste and establish new landfill sites in a speedy manner.

The green panel had constituted a committee to look into the working of waste-to-energy plants here.

It had also asked the CPCB and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee to approach the Delhi government to provide more landfill sites and maintain them strictly in accordance with the Solid Waste Management Rules of 2016.&nbsp;

A bench headed by Justice Jawad Rahim slammed the authorities for not submitting their plan and said despite specific timeline, there is a lapse in compliance of the direction on creating management facilities for construction and debris waste, plastic and e-waste

The National Green Tribunal has directed the Delhi government and the civic bodies to submit within two weeks an action plan for identifying alternative landfill sites and setting up waste-to-energy plants in the city. A bench headed by Justice Jawad Rahim slammed the authorities for not submitting their plan and said despite specific timeline, there is a lapse in compliance of the direction on creating management facilities for construction and debris waste, plastic and e-waste. "We had directed the chief secretary to coordinate and ensure corporations must meet and resolve dispute by a decision which should crystallise into action plan on the above issues. They were directed to file result action plan. "Till now the action plan has not been filed. Hence, we direct it should be filed within two weeks from now and we give them a last chance to comply with the order. In case of any lapse on part of any authority, we shall hold the commissioner of each municipal corporation responsible and we further direct the chief secretary to comply with the directions," the bench said. The tribunal took exception to the submission of South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) that the order for filing action plan was not available on the website due to which they could not do the needful. However, the bench said, "The order speaks for itself it was not confined only to SDMC, but the direction involved all the municipal corporations. Therefore such a plea is not unacceptable". The green panel directed the Central Pollution Control Board to comply with the order and also ensure steps are taken for compliance of this order. The matter is posted for next hearing on March 15. The tribunal had earlier convened a meeting of stakeholders for identifying alternative landfill sites and setting up waste-to-energy plants in the national capital. The NGT had said that it was unfortunate that at a time when the national capital was grappling with the huge quantum of waste to the tune of 14,000 metric tonnes on a daily basis, the authorities were involved in a "blame game" and showing an irresponsible attitude. With the rapid development and massive urbanisation of the megacity, the waste generation was increasing on a daily basis which has resulted in the saturation of the existing landfill sites which can handle only up to 7,000 metric tonnes of waste, the tribunal had said. "The improper handling of municipal waste dumped at the sites has even resulted in the deaths of two people," the NGT had said. It had asked the public authorities to make concerted efforts to deal with the problem of waste and establish new landfill sites in a speedy manner. The green panel had constituted a committee to look into the working of waste-to-energy plants here. It had also asked the CPCB and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee to approach the Delhi government to provide more landfill sites and maintain them strictly in accordance with the Solid Waste Management Rules of 2016.

Submit action plan on landfill sites in 2 weeks: NGT to Delhi govt

The National Green Tribunal has rapped the Haryana government over continuous pollution in Yamuna river.&nbsp;

The panel has issued a notice to the Haryana government seeking a detailed reply by tomorrow on the petition filed by the Delhi Jal Board over pollution in Yamuna river and reduction in its water level.&nbsp;

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NGT issued notice to Haryana govt seeking a detailed reply till tomorrow on the petition filed by Delhi Jal Board over continuous pollution in river Yamuna and reduction of water level.
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/962976615583141888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Delhi government and the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) also came under fire previously for delaying compliance of orders of NGT&#39;s Yamuna cleaning project in October 2017.

The Kejriwal government and the DJB were asked to show cause for why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them.

The green panel said it was a matter of great regret that the judgement of the tribunal in relation to the cleaning and rejuvenation of Yamuna river, passed on January 13, 2015, have not been complied with by till date.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Delhi government and the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) also came under fire previously for delaying compliance of NGT's orders

The National Green Tribunal has rapped the Haryana government over continuous pollution in Yamuna river. The panel has issued a notice to the Haryana government seeking a detailed reply by tomorrow on the petition filed by the Delhi Jal Board over pollution in Yamuna river and reduction in its water level. NGT issued notice to Haryana govt seeking a detailed reply till tomorrow on the petition filed by Delhi Jal Board over continuous pollution in river Yamuna and reduction of water level. — ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018 × The Delhi government and the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) also came under fire previously for delaying compliance of orders of NGT's Yamuna cleaning project in October 2017. The Kejriwal government and the DJB were asked to show cause for why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them. The green panel said it was a matter of great regret that the judgement of the tribunal in relation to the cleaning and rejuvenation of Yamuna river, passed on January 13, 2015, have not been complied with by till date. (With inputs from agencies)

National Green Tribunal raps Haryana government over pollution in Yamuna river

The Vaishno Devi pilgrimage from Katra was suspended till 5am on Monday as the number of devotees crossed the 50,000 mark on New Year&#39;s Eve.

Only 49,907 devotees were finally allowed to begin their pilgrimage, according to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.

The move comes after National Green Tribunal (NGT) put a cap on the number of devotees to 50,000 per day, in a directive issued in November.

This year, as per official records, 80 lakh devotees have visited the holy shrine, which is three lakh higher than previous two years.

In 2016, the number was 77,23,721 and in 2015, it was 77,76,604. The numbers spilled over the limit as many devotees wished to ring in the new year by paying their obeisance at the Vaishno Devi shrine.

This year, as per official records, 80 lakh devotees have visited the holy shrine.

The Vaishno Devi pilgrimage from Katra was suspended till 5am on Monday as the number of devotees crossed the 50,000 mark on New Year's Eve. Only 49,907 devotees were finally allowed to begin their pilgrimage, according to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. The move comes after National Green Tribunal (NGT) put a cap on the number of devotees to 50,000 per day, in a directive issued in November. This year, as per official records, 80 lakh devotees have visited the holy shrine, which is three lakh higher than previous two years. In 2016, the number was 77,23,721 and in 2015, it was 77,76,604. The numbers spilled over the limit as many devotees wished to ring in the new year by paying their obeisance at the Vaishno Devi shrine.

Vaishno Devi Yatra temporarily suspended due to heavy rush

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Friday again turned down Delhi government&#39;s review plea seeking an exemption to the women drivers and two-wheelers from the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme.

The green tribunal, which last month too rejected the same plea, observed that exemption to two-wheelers is completely against the spirit of the odd-even policy.

It also ruled that any exemptions would only defeat the purpose of the scheme as there are 60 lakh two-wheelers plying in Delhi which carry a lesser number of passengers and are more polluting, since they subscribe to older emission norms.

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NGT dismissed review application filed by Delhi government on Odd-Even issue, observed that exemption to two-wheelers is against the spirit of Odd-Even policy.
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/941611746275442688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2017</a></blockquote>
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NGT ruled that any exemptions would only defeat purpose of the scheme since there are 60 lakh two wheelers plying in Delhi, carry lesser number of passengers and are more polluting since they subscribe to older emission norms
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/941620777366851586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The court also observed that the application of the car-rationing scheme was based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) and not any sort of discretion.

The move came as a blow to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal&#39;s plan to implement the scheme anytime soon&nbsp;after the national capital witnessed &quot;severe&quot;&nbsp;and &quot;emergency&quot;&nbsp;levels of air quality.

The Delhi government was set to roll out the odd-even scheme from 13-17 November but shelved the plan after NGT ruled against the exemptions provided in it.&nbsp;

The court said that any exemptions would only defeat the purpose of the scheme

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Friday again turned down Delhi government's review plea seeking an exemption to the women drivers and two-wheelers from the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme. The green tribunal, which last month too rejected the same plea, observed that exemption to two-wheelers is completely against the spirit of the odd-even policy. It also ruled that any exemptions would only defeat the purpose of the scheme as there are 60 lakh two-wheelers plying in Delhi which carry a lesser number of passengers and are more polluting, since they subscribe to older emission norms. NGT dismissed review application filed by Delhi government on Odd-Even issue, observed that exemption to two-wheelers is against the spirit of Odd-Even policy. — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2017 × NGT ruled that any exemptions would only defeat purpose of the scheme since there are 60 lakh two wheelers plying in Delhi, carry lesser number of passengers and are more polluting since they subscribe to older emission norms — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2017 × The court also observed that the application of the car-rationing scheme was based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) and not any sort of discretion. The move came as a blow to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's plan to implement the scheme anytime soon after the national capital witnessed "severe" and "emergency" levels of air quality. The Delhi government was set to roll out the odd-even scheme from 13-17 November but shelved the plan after NGT ruled against the exemptions provided in it.

NGT dismisses Delhi govt's odd-even review plea, says any exemption is against the policy'

National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed all concerned to take effective steps to control pollutants in the ambient air quality of NCR-Delhi.&nbsp;

In a statement, NGT has directed ministry of environment, forest and climate change, ministry of transport, NCT Delhi, PCBs and all the concerned state governments in NCR Delhi to fully coordinate and cooperate to control pollutants in the ambient air quality of NCR Delhi and take all effective steps.

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NGT bans use, sale, purchase &amp; storage of plastic bags &amp; plastic items like plates and spoons etc. along river Ganga in Haridwar&#39;s Har Ki Pauri, Rishikesh, till upper areas in Uttarkashi. Fine of Rs.5000 to be imposed on violators. <a href="https://t.co/6PguyIBI7y">pic.twitter.com/6PguyIBI7y</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/941561389906149377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2017</a></blockquote>
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NGT also permitted the continuation of Express Highway Project of Eastern Peripheral Expressway with the condition that no dust emission or pollution caused due to the activity.&nbsp;

&#39;&#39;The Express Highway Project of Eastern Peripheral Expressway would continue subject to the Senior most officer of the NHAI filing an undertaking that they shall fully ensure that there is no dust emission and that no pollution is caused by their activity,&#39;&#39; it said. &nbsp;

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NGT says that the Express Highway Project of Eastern Peripheral Expressway would continue subject to Senior most officer of the NHAI filing an undertaking that they shall fully ensure that there are no dust emission and that no pollution is caused by their activity <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AirPollution?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AirPollution</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/941553543256797186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2017</a></blockquote>
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NGT also banned the use, sale, purchase and storage of plastic bags and plastic items like plates and spoons etcetera along river Ganga in Haridwar&#39;s Har Ki Pauri, Rishikesh, till upper areas in Uttarkashi.&nbsp;

Fine of Rs.5000 to be imposed on violators.

 
&nbsp;

NGT also permitted the continuation of Express Highway Project of Eastern Peripheral Expressway with the condition that no dust emission or pollution caused due to the activity.?

National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed all concerned to take effective steps to control pollutants in the ambient air quality of NCR-Delhi. In a statement, NGT has directed ministry of environment, forest and climate change, ministry of transport, NCT Delhi, PCBs and all the concerned state governments in NCR Delhi to fully coordinate and cooperate to control pollutants in the ambient air quality of NCR Delhi and take all effective steps. NGT bans use, sale, purchase & storage of plastic bags & plastic items like plates and spoons etc. along river Ganga in Haridwar's Har Ki Pauri, Rishikesh, till upper areas in Uttarkashi. Fine of Rs.5000 to be imposed on violators. pic.twitter.com/6PguyIBI7y — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2017 × NGT also permitted the continuation of Express Highway Project of Eastern Peripheral Expressway with the condition that no dust emission or pollution caused due to the activity. ''The Express Highway Project of Eastern Peripheral Expressway would continue subject to the Senior most officer of the NHAI filing an undertaking that they shall fully ensure that there is no dust emission and that no pollution is caused by their activity,'' it said. NGT says that the Express Highway Project of Eastern Peripheral Expressway would continue subject to Senior most officer of the NHAI filing an undertaking that they shall fully ensure that there are no dust emission and that no pollution is caused by their activity #AirPollution — ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2017 × NGT also banned the use, sale, purchase and storage of plastic bags and plastic items like plates and spoons etcetera along river Ganga in Haridwar's Har Ki Pauri, Rishikesh, till upper areas in Uttarkashi. Fine of Rs.5000 to be imposed on violators.

NGT directs authorities to take effective steps to curb pollution in Delhi-NCR

National Green Tribunal in a clarification issued on Thursday said that it has not declared Amarnath a &#39;&#39;silent zone&#39;&#39;.&nbsp;

&#39;&#39;Only restriction that devotees will maintain silence in front of Shivling. Not applicable to any other part. One way queue will be maintained,&#39;&#39; NGT said in a clarification issued on Thursday.&nbsp;

NGT further said that these directions were necessary to maintain sanctity of the cave and to ensure no adverse noise impact on shivling.&nbsp;

Silence restrictions will not apply on Arti and other rituals, NGT clarified.&nbsp;

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NGT issues clarification on Amarnath matter, says its not declared silent zone. Only restriction that devotees will maintain silence in front of Shivling. Not applicable to any other part. One way queue will be maintained
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/941185144081211393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2017</a></blockquote>
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A bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar on Wednesday said the Amarnath Shrine Board should ensure that proper infrastructural facilities are provided to the pilgrims so that they are not deprived of a clear &#39;darshan&#39;, and the ecology of the area is maintained.

The green panel also directed that there should be a single line of people walking towards the cave from the last check post.

The NGT further directed that devotees will be not allowed to carry prasad (religious offerings) in the cave and that an iron rod from the cave to facilitate devotees offering prayers will be removed.

&quot;There should be no ringing of bells. No mobiles or belongings to be carried beyond last check post. The shrine board must consider making a storeroom where people can keep their belongings,&quot; the NGT told the Amarnath Shrine Board.

Silence restrictions will not apply on Arti and other rituals, NGT clarified.

National Green Tribunal in a clarification issued on Thursday said that it has not declared Amarnath a ''silent zone''. ''Only restriction that devotees will maintain silence in front of Shivling. Not applicable to any other part. One way queue will be maintained,'' NGT said in a clarification issued on Thursday. NGT further said that these directions were necessary to maintain sanctity of the cave and to ensure no adverse noise impact on shivling. Silence restrictions will not apply on Arti and other rituals, NGT clarified. NGT issues clarification on Amarnath matter, says its not declared silent zone. Only restriction that devotees will maintain silence in front of Shivling. Not applicable to any other part. One way queue will be maintained — ANI (@ANI) December 14, 2017 × A bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar on Wednesday said the Amarnath Shrine Board should ensure that proper infrastructural facilities are provided to the pilgrims so that they are not deprived of a clear 'darshan', and the ecology of the area is maintained. The green panel also directed that there should be a single line of people walking towards the cave from the last check post. The NGT further directed that devotees will be not allowed to carry prasad (religious offerings) in the cave and that an iron rod from the cave to facilitate devotees offering prayers will be removed. "There should be no ringing of bells. No mobiles or belongings to be carried beyond last check post. The shrine board must consider making a storeroom where people can keep their belongings," the NGT told the Amarnath Shrine Board.

Not declared Amarnath 'silent zone', clarifies NGT

India&#39;s National Green Tribunal on Wednesday declared the area around the Amarnath cave shrine a &quot;silence zone&quot; and directed the Amarnath Shrine Board that there should be no chanting of &quot;mantras&quot;&nbsp;or &quot;jaykaras&quot; in the cave shrine in Kashmir.

A bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar said the Amarnath Shrine Board should ensure that proper infrastructural facilities are provided to the pilgrims so that they are not deprived of a clear &#39;darshan&#39;, and the ecology of the area is maintained.

The green panel also directed that there should be a single line of people walking towards the cave from the last check post.

The NGT further directed that devotees will be not allowed to carry prasad (religious offerings) in the&nbsp;cave and that an&nbsp;iron rod from the cave to facilitate devotees offering prayers will be removed.

&quot;There should be no ringing of bells. No mobiles or belongings to be carried beyond last check post. The shrine board must consider making a storeroom where people can keep their belongings,&quot; the NGT told the Amarnath Shrine Board.

The NGT earlier said that would be helpful in preventing avalanches and maintaining its pristine nature.

The matter will again be heard&nbsp;on January 18. 
 
In November, the NGT rapped the Amarnath Shrine Board for not providing proper infrastructural facilities to pilgrims going to the cave shrine in south Kashmir Himalayas, saying it could not &quot;deprive people of proper darshan&quot;. 
 
The Amarnath cave shrine is considered to be one of the holiest shrines by Hindus. 
 
(With inputs from PTI)

The green panel also directed that there should be a single line of people walking towards the cave from the last check post

India's National Green Tribunal on Wednesday declared the area around the Amarnath cave shrine a "silence zone" and directed the Amarnath Shrine Board that there should be no chanting of "mantras" or "jaykaras" in the cave shrine in Kashmir. A bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar said the Amarnath Shrine Board should ensure that proper infrastructural facilities are provided to the pilgrims so that they are not deprived of a clear 'darshan', and the ecology of the area is maintained. The green panel also directed that there should be a single line of people walking towards the cave from the last check post. The NGT further directed that devotees will be not allowed to carry prasad (religious offerings) in the cave and that an iron rod from the cave to facilitate devotees offering prayers will be removed. "There should be no ringing of bells. No mobiles or belongings to be carried beyond last check post. The shrine board must consider making a storeroom where people can keep their belongings," the NGT told the Amarnath Shrine Board. The NGT earlier said that would be helpful in preventing avalanches and maintaining its pristine nature. The matter will again be heard on January 18. In November, the NGT rapped the Amarnath Shrine Board for not providing proper infrastructural facilities to pilgrims going to the cave shrine in south Kashmir Himalayas, saying it could not "deprive people of proper darshan". The Amarnath cave shrine is considered to be one of the holiest shrines by Hindus. (With inputs from PTI)

No chanting of 'mantras' at Amarnath shrine: NGT

The National Green Tribunal slammed the Delhi government Monday for not filing an action plan to curb air pollution.&nbsp;

&quot;Where is your action plan? Why have you not submitted it? What can we do if you keep on changing everybody? It&#39;s not our problem if people don&#39;t want to stick to you,&quot; PTI reported a bench headed by NGT chairperson as saying.&nbsp;

&quot;You keep on doing meetings but tell us a single action or step you have taken in the last four days to combat air pollution,&quot; the bench said.

The NGT also slammed the government for letting the India-Sri Lanka Test go ahead.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/cricket/3rd-test-play-halted-twice-due-to-pollution-lanka-players-wear-masks-while-fielding-25729" target="_blank">Pollution halts play three times, Lanka players wear masks while fielding</a>

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/cricket/cricketers-vomiting-after-playing-in-polluted-delhi-sri-lanka-coach-25769" target="_blank">Cricketers vomiting after playing in polluted Delhi, says Sri Lanka coach</a>

&quot;Every newspaper has been carrying headline that the air pollution was going to be higher this week. Still you took no action. Even the players were playing match wearing masks. You should have not held the match if the air quality was so bad. Are people of Delhi supposed to bear this?&quot; PTI reported the bench as saying.&nbsp;

The bench also pulled up the city government for not introducing the odd-even car scheme considering the air quality is so bad.&nbsp;

The NGT had recently put a stop to all construction activity and the entry of trucks into the city.&nbsp;

It had however refused to allow any exemptions to women drivers, two-wheeler users, and government servants in the odd-even scheme which the Delhi government had wanted to roll out.&nbsp;

As a result, the Arvind Kejriwal-led Delhi government had decided against rolling out the scheme.&nbsp;

The National Green Tribunal slammed the Delhi government on Monday for not filing an action plan to curb pollution

The National Green Tribunal slammed the Delhi government Monday for not filing an action plan to curb air pollution. "Where is your action plan? Why have you not submitted it? What can we do if you keep on changing everybody? It's not our problem if people don't want to stick to you," PTI reported a bench headed by NGT chairperson as saying. "You keep on doing meetings but tell us a single action or step you have taken in the last four days to combat air pollution," the bench said. The NGT also slammed the government for letting the India-Sri Lanka Test go ahead. Also read: Pollution halts play three times, Lanka players wear masks while fielding Also read: Cricketers vomiting after playing in polluted Delhi, says Sri Lanka coach "Every newspaper has been carrying headline that the air pollution was going to be higher this week. Still you took no action. Even the players were playing match wearing masks. You should have not held the match if the air quality was so bad. Are people of Delhi supposed to bear this?" PTI reported the bench as saying. The bench also pulled up the city government for not introducing the odd-even car scheme considering the air quality is so bad. The NGT had recently put a stop to all construction activity and the entry of trucks into the city. It had however refused to allow any exemptions to women drivers, two-wheeler users, and government servants in the odd-even scheme which the Delhi government had wanted to roll out. As a result, the Arvind Kejriwal-led Delhi government had decided against rolling out the scheme.

Air is so bad, why have you not rolled out odd-even scheme? NGT asks Delhi government

The National Green Tribunal has called for a meeting of Ministry of Agriculture and states of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh on 28 November.

The NGT has also asked the&nbsp;NTPC to join the meeting.

The meeting is scheduled for 11 am.

The meeting is convened to decide on transportation and use of stubble.

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NGT directs NTPC, Ministry of Agriculture and states of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh to convene a meeting at 11 am on 28 November to decide on transportation, subsequent use of stubble and compensating farmers adequately. Next date of hearing is 6 December.
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/933236964009984000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The meeting will try to formulate a workable solution for stubble burning.&nbsp;

The Thermal Power plant has expressed its willingness to use agricultural residue in power plants. However, they can use it as five per cent of the fuel.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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NGT asks all the concerned states to provide workable solution for stubble burning. NTPC says they are willing to use agricultural residue in power plants, however it may not be possible to use it directly as they can only use it as 5 percent of the fuel.
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/933236613148172289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The NGT&#39;s decision is in response to the rising level of air pollutant&nbsp;in Delhi and adjoining states.

The pollution level rises after the farmers resort to stubble burning to clear off the agricultural fields for next season.

The meeting is convened to decide on transportation and use of stubble

The National Green Tribunal has called for a meeting of Ministry of Agriculture and states of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh on 28 November. The NGT has also asked the NTPC to join the meeting. The meeting is scheduled for 11 am. The meeting is convened to decide on transportation and use of stubble. NGT directs NTPC, Ministry of Agriculture and states of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh to convene a meeting at 11 am on 28 November to decide on transportation, subsequent use of stubble and compensating farmers adequately. Next date of hearing is 6 December. — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2017 × The meeting will try to formulate a workable solution for stubble burning. The Thermal Power plant has expressed its willingness to use agricultural residue in power plants. However, they can use it as five per cent of the fuel. NGT asks all the concerned states to provide workable solution for stubble burning. NTPC says they are willing to use agricultural residue in power plants, however it may not be possible to use it directly as they can only use it as 5 percent of the fuel. — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2017 × The NGT's decision is in response to the rising level of air pollutant in Delhi and adjoining states. The pollution level rises after the farmers resort to stubble burning to clear off the agricultural fields for next season.

NGT called for a meeting of Ministry of Agriculture, states and NTPC on Nov 28

The Supreme Court has put a stay on the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ngt-caps-number-of-pilgrims-at-vaishno-devi-at-50000-ina-single-day-24101" target="_blank">National Green Tribunal&#39;s order</a> which directed temple authorities to open a new road for use by pedestrians and battery operated vehicles.&nbsp;

The tribunal had asked the Vaishno Devi Temple Shrine Board to devise a plan to replace the animals with a battery operated vehicles. The plan was to be implemented on November 24.&nbsp;

However, a stay was put on the order by a bench of Justice Madan B.Lokur and Justice Deepak Gupta.

The apex court stay came after the temple shrine told the court that it was impossible to open the new road from November 24, as construction was ongoing.&nbsp;

Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi told the bench that the new road would be opened in February. It will cost around Rs 40 crore.&nbsp;

The NGT had earlier restricted the number of pilgrims visiting the shrine in Jammu and Kashmir to 50,000 per day.&nbsp; 
 
It had also instructed the temple authorities to put a fine of Rs 2000 on anyone found littering roads as well as the bus stop in Katra town.

The Tribunal had also asked the authorities to stop all construction activities around the Shrine.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The tribunal had asked the Vaishno Devi Temple Shrine Board to devise a plan to replace the animals with a battery operated vehicles. The plan was to be implemented on November 24

The Supreme Court has put a stay on the National Green Tribunal's order which directed temple authorities to open a new road for use by pedestrians and battery operated vehicles. The tribunal had asked the Vaishno Devi Temple Shrine Board to devise a plan to replace the animals with a battery operated vehicles. The plan was to be implemented on November 24. However, a stay was put on the order by a bench of Justice Madan B.Lokur and Justice Deepak Gupta. The apex court stay came after the temple shrine told the court that it was impossible to open the new road from November 24, as construction was ongoing. Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi told the bench that the new road would be opened in February. It will cost around Rs 40 crore. The NGT had earlier restricted the number of pilgrims visiting the shrine in Jammu and Kashmir to 50,000 per day. It had also instructed the temple authorities to put a fine of Rs 2000 on anyone found littering roads as well as the bus stop in Katra town. The Tribunal had also asked the authorities to stop all construction activities around the Shrine.

Supreme Court stay on NGT order on Vaishno Devi

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Friday asked all the state governments to file a composite action plan that would automatically come into effect as levels of Particle Pollution (PM) rises even as it lifted the ban on construction activities in Delhi.

As per NGT direction, concerned states must submit the plan within&nbsp;two weeks, failing which the NGT has proposed to impose a fine of Rs 5 lakh on senior most official responsible for the delay. &nbsp;The fine will be deducted from the particular officer&#39;s salary.

NGT also observed that schools can automatically be closed whenever Pollution levels are severe.&nbsp;

On an application pleading not to exempt CNG vehicles during the implementation of odd-even scheme as long as CNG stickers are being blackmarketed to petrol and diesel vehicles.

NGT directed the state government to take serious note of the application and initiate action as judiciously as possible.

NGT also said that nobody is allowed to park their cars&nbsp;on the road of the market. &#39;&#39;No excuse would be entertained. We direct Delhi police SDMC and enforcement to ensure to be continuously present there for 2 weeks for compliance.. violators will be fined with RS 5 thousand excluding challan. &nbsp;Open area should be declared a no parking zone,&#39; it further said. 
&nbsp;

NGT also observed that schools can automatically be closed whenever Pollution levels are severe.?

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Friday asked all the state governments to file a composite action plan that would automatically come into effect as levels of Particle Pollution (PM) rises even as it lifted the ban on construction activities in Delhi. As per NGT direction, concerned states must submit the plan within two weeks, failing which the NGT has proposed to impose a fine of Rs 5 lakh on senior most official responsible for the delay. The fine will be deducted from the particular officer's salary. NGT also observed that schools can automatically be closed whenever Pollution levels are severe. On an application pleading not to exempt CNG vehicles during the implementation of odd-even scheme as long as CNG stickers are being blackmarketed to petrol and diesel vehicles. NGT directed the state government to take serious note of the application and initiate action as judiciously as possible. NGT also said that nobody is allowed to park their cars on the road of the market. ''No excuse would be entertained. We direct Delhi police SDMC and enforcement to ensure to be continuously present there for 2 weeks for compliance.. violators will be fined with RS 5 thousand excluding challan. Open area should be declared a no parking zone,' it further said.

NGT asks state governments to file action plan to combat pollution

The National <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/install-rainwater-harvesting-system-in-two-months-ngt-to-delhi-schools-colleges-24362">Green Tribunal (NGT) on Friday allowed</a> construction activities to resume in the national capital while asking the government to take preventive measures in order to control air pollution.

The NGT also lifted the ban on the entry of trucks in the Delhi. The Delhi High Court had allowed entry of trucks and removed the&nbsp;four-fold increase in parking fees on Thursday.

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National Green Tribunal allows construction activities in the national capital, asks for preventive measures to be taken in order to control air pollution
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/931390373363978240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2017</a></blockquote>
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&#39;&#39;Ban on entry of trucks has also been lifted, but should be properly regulated,&#39;&#39; news agency ANI reported quoting NGT.&nbsp;

Prohibitory order on industries, burning of crops will continue to be in place, according to the NGT order.

The sprinkling of water will continue where particles are dense. The NGT has told Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to implement water sprinkling&nbsp;in their respective states.&nbsp;

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Kanpur: Fire Brigade Services &amp; Municipality sprinkled water on roads in Ghanta Ghar Chauraha in light of increase in pollution in the city. <a href="https://t.co/eFQybWKtSa">pic.twitter.com/eFQybWKtSa</a>
&mdash; ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/931392351217491969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The NGT also directed Delhi and other neighbouring states to file a status report within two weeks.

The NGT also lifted the ban on the entry of trucks in the Capital.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Friday allowed construction activities to resume in the national capital while asking the government to take preventive measures in order to control air pollution. The NGT also lifted the ban on the entry of trucks in the Delhi. The Delhi High Court had allowed entry of trucks and removed the four-fold increase in parking fees on Thursday. National Green Tribunal allows construction activities in the national capital, asks for preventive measures to be taken in order to control air pollution — ANI (@ANI) November 17, 2017 × ''Ban on entry of trucks has also been lifted, but should be properly regulated,'' news agency ANI reported quoting NGT. Prohibitory order on industries, burning of crops will continue to be in place, according to the NGT order. The sprinkling of water will continue where particles are dense. The NGT has told Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to implement water sprinkling in their respective states. Kanpur: Fire Brigade Services & Municipality sprinkled water on roads in Ghanta Ghar Chauraha in light of increase in pollution in the city. pic.twitter.com/eFQybWKtSa — ANI UP (@ANINewsUP) November 17, 2017 × The NGT also directed Delhi and other neighbouring states to file a status report within two weeks.

NGT allows construction activities to resume in Delhi

The National Green Tribunal on Thursday banned construction, residential or commercial, within three metres of the national highways in the entire state of Himachal Pradesh.

The tribunal also banned new construction in any part of &quot;green, forest and core areas&quot; in the northern hill state, PTI reported.

Any person found damaging forest area or hills without permission would be liable to pay a fine not less than Rs 5 lakh, the NGT said.

The tribunal rapped the Himachal Pradesh government for permitting indiscriminate construction and said it has failed to discharge its constitutional obligations and it was this failure that has exposed picturesque Shimla to natural and man-made disasters.

&quot;If such unplanned and indiscriminate development is permitted, there will be irreparable loss and damage to the environment, ecology and natural resources on the one hand and inevitable disaster on the other,&quot; the bench said.

It also reiterated its earlier order banning the use of plastic bags in Shimla and asked the authorities to ensure that no such material is &quot;used, stored and sold&quot; by the shopkeepers.

The tribunal also made rain water harvesting system mandatory for all the building plans and held that even the old buildings must be provided with such system within three months.

The bench also directed the state government to prepare an action plan for providing appropriate infrastructure, water and sewerage facilities, roads and other public amenities in the areas which lack such facilities.

The judgement came on a plea filed by Himachal Pradesh resident Yogendra Mohan Sengupta and Sheela Malhotra who sought a detailed study on the carrying capacity of hills in Shimla.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)

The National Green Tribunal on Thursday banned construction within three metres of the end of the national highways in the entire state of Himachal Pradesh

The National Green Tribunal on Thursday banned construction, residential or commercial, within three metres of the national highways in the entire state of Himachal Pradesh. The tribunal also banned new construction in any part of "green, forest and core areas" in the northern hill state, PTI reported. Any person found damaging forest area or hills without permission would be liable to pay a fine not less than Rs 5 lakh, the NGT said. The tribunal rapped the Himachal Pradesh government for permitting indiscriminate construction and said it has failed to discharge its constitutional obligations and it was this failure that has exposed picturesque Shimla to natural and man-made disasters. "If such unplanned and indiscriminate development is permitted, there will be irreparable loss and damage to the environment, ecology and natural resources on the one hand and inevitable disaster on the other," the bench said. It also reiterated its earlier order banning the use of plastic bags in Shimla and asked the authorities to ensure that no such material is "used, stored and sold" by the shopkeepers. The tribunal also made rain water harvesting system mandatory for all the building plans and held that even the old buildings must be provided with such system within three months. The bench also directed the state government to prepare an action plan for providing appropriate infrastructure, water and sewerage facilities, roads and other public amenities in the areas which lack such facilities. The judgement came on a plea filed by Himachal Pradesh resident Yogendra Mohan Sengupta and Sheela Malhotra who sought a detailed study on the carrying capacity of hills in Shimla. (With inputs from PTI)

Himachal Pradesh: NGT raps govt, bans construction within 3 mts of national highways

The Delhi government has filed a fresh review petition with the National Green Tribunal (NGT) regarding odd-even policy.

The state government has again requested that two-wheelers and woman drivers be exempt from the scheme for one year or till 2,000 additional buses are engaged by the city.

The state government has also requested neighbouring states to implement the odd-even scheme.

The NGT had earlier today refused to exempt women and two-wheelers from the odd-even scheme.

It also directed the government ensure that over-10-year-old diesel vehicles be taken off the city&#39;s roads without delay.

Expressing concern over the rising pollution in Delhi, the bench said the city should &quot;not gift infected lungs to its children&quot;.&nbsp;

NGT chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar also asked the AAP government to identify the most-polluted areas in the city and sprinkle water on them from high-rise buildings.

The NGT however allowed non-polluting industries which manufacture essential goods to continue functioning.&nbsp;

The Delhi government had scrapped its plan to implement the odd-even scheme from November 13 after the NGT said there would be no exemptions from the scheme for women drivers, two-wheelers, and government servants.

The state government has again requested that two-wheelers and woman drivers be exempt from the scheme for one year or till 2,000 additional buses are engaged by the city

The Delhi government has filed a fresh review petition with the National Green Tribunal (NGT) regarding odd-even policy. The state government has again requested that two-wheelers and woman drivers be exempt from the scheme for one year or till 2,000 additional buses are engaged by the city. The state government has also requested neighbouring states to implement the odd-even scheme. The NGT had earlier today refused to exempt women and two-wheelers from the odd-even scheme. It also directed the government ensure that over-10-year-old diesel vehicles be taken off the city's roads without delay. Expressing concern over the rising pollution in Delhi, the bench said the city should "not gift infected lungs to its children". NGT chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar also asked the AAP government to identify the most-polluted areas in the city and sprinkle water on them from high-rise buildings. The NGT however allowed non-polluting industries which manufacture essential goods to continue functioning. The Delhi government had scrapped its plan to implement the odd-even scheme from November 13 after the NGT said there would be no exemptions from the scheme for women drivers, two-wheelers, and government servants.

Odd-even: Delhi government files fresh review petition with NGT

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