A joint committee comprising officials from the Haryana State Pollution Control Board, Charkhi Dadri administration, and Central Pollution Control Board has successfully recovered Rs 4.01 crore as environmental compensation from 44 stone crushers in Charkhi Dadri, Haryana. They have also lodged 70 criminal cases and attached 47 properties for non-compliance with environmental norms. This initiative follows a case filed in 2017 against stone crushers operating in Charkhi Dadri, which were causing air and water pollution. The National Green Tribunal had been monitoring and reviewing the efforts of the HSPCB and the state government to control this pollution.
In a significant development, a joint committee comprised of officials from the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB), the Charkhi Dadri administration, and the Central Pollution Control Board has successfully recovered Rs 4.01 crore as environmental compensation from 44 stone crushers operating in Charkhi Dadri, Haryana. This achievement was reported in a status report submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT). Additionally, the committee has informed the tribunal about the lodging of 70 criminal cases and the attachment of 47 properties, all stemming from non-compliance with environmental norms.
The genesis of this matter dates back to 2017 when a case was filed against stone crushers in Charkhi Dadri, accusing them of causing air and water pollution in the region. The case had far-reaching consequences, impacting not only the environment but also causing health issues for residents and damage to road infrastructure. In the face of government inaction, the case was brought before the NGT by a concerned local resident, V K Jangra.
The NGT, being the apex green bench, assumed a proactive role in monitoring and evaluating the actions taken by the HSPCB and the state government to address the pollution concerns stemming from the stone crushers in Charkhi Dadri.
At the outset, there were a staggering 343 stone crushers operating in Charkhi Dadri, all of which had a detrimental impact on the local environment. Their activities led to air and water pollution, creating serious health hazards for the residents and deteriorating the region's road infrastructure. As government authorities initially failed to take effective measures, V K Jangra, with a strong plea for action, turned to the NGT for a resolution.
The latest data presented to the green tribunal reveals a significant reduction in the number of operational stone crusher units in Charkhi Dadri. At present, only 239 units have been found to be operational, following the necessary permissions granted by relevant authorities, including the state pollution board. The remaining units either lay dormant or had their machinery dismantled for closure, as indicated in the report.
In a commendable move, the status report also highlights afforestation efforts in the region. Over the past three years, a staggering 9 lakh trees have been planted as part of environmental conservation initiatives. Moreover, the report underscores the implementation of four dust control systems, which are crucial for mitigating air pollution in the area.
This development showcases the combined efforts of multiple stakeholders, including government bodies and vigilant citizens, in addressing environmental concerns and holding polluters accountable. The recovery of substantial environmental compensation underscores the significance of adherence to environmental norms and regulations.
The NGT's vigilant oversight of this case and its commitment to ensuring environmental compliance have set an important precedent for addressing pollution concerns and promoting sustainable practices in the stone crushing industry and beyond.
In conclusion, the successful recovery of Rs 4.01 crore in environmental compensation from 44 stone crushers in Charkhi Dadri, Haryana, reflects a collaborative effort to combat environmental pollution. This accomplishment, under the vigilant monitoring of the NGT, sets an example for upholding environmental standards and fostering sustainable practices.
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