The National Green Tribunal (NGT) recently issued an order directing Jain Housing to pay a penalty of Rs 2.19 crore for violating environmental laws during the expansion of one of its premium projects in Thoraipakkam. In 2009, the company obtained environmental clearance to construct 412 dwelling units in the first phase and another 396 units in the second phase of the Jains Pebble Brook apartment. However, the company ended up constructing 620 dwelling units in the first phase alone, without obtaining consent from the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) or revised environmental clearance for the entire project.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) recently issued an order directing Jain Housing to pay a penalty of Rs 2.19 crore for violating environmental laws during the expansion of one of its premium projects in Thoraipakkam. In 2009, the company obtained environmental clearance to construct 412 dwelling units in the first phase and another 396 units in the second phase of the Jains Pebble Brook apartment. However, the company ended up constructing 620 dwelling units in the first phase alone, without obtaining consent from the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) or revised environmental clearance for the entire project.
The additional residential units resulted in an increase in sewage outflow and solid waste generation. One of the purchasers of the residential units raised concerns and approached the NGT, which asked TNPCB to investigate the issue. Upon inspection of the site in 2018, TNPCB found that Jain Housing had indeed violated environmental laws.
Jain Housing argued that the additional 208 units in phase-I of the project were constructed within the permitted built-up area, but the tribunal refused to set aside the board's proceedings. In 2019, the tribunal issued directions to assess the compensation to be recovered from the company for damages caused to the environment. Eventually, the environmental compensation of Rs 2.19 crore was levied.
The NGT's decision to penalize Jain Housing for violating environmental laws highlights the importance of adhering to regulations aimed at protecting the environment. The tribunal's ruling serves as a warning to other companies that may be tempted to flout environmental regulations for financial gain.
The expansion of the Jains Pebble Brook apartment project has had a negative impact on the environment, as the increased sewage outflow and solid waste generation have caused damage to the ecosystem. It is essential for companies to conduct their business activities in a sustainable manner and take necessary measures to minimize their environmental impact.
The NGT's ruling is also a reminder to homebuyers to be vigilant about the projects they invest in and to ensure that companies follow all necessary environmental regulations. By holding companies accountable for their actions, the NGT is playing a critical role in protecting the environment and ensuring sustainable development.
In conclusion, the NGT's decision to penalize Jain Housing for violating environmental laws sends a strong message to other companies that flouting regulations will not be tolerated. It is crucial for companies to conduct their business activities in a sustainable and responsible manner, taking necessary measures to minimize their environmental impact.
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