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The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has warned Odisha state authorities, including the chief secretary, of heavy fines over illegal constructions at Tampara Lake, a Ramsar site in Ganjam district. The NGT criticized the state's inaction, noting a 16-month delay in responding to a petition by the Wildlife Society of Orissa (WSO) seeking the removal of illegal structures. The constructions, reportedly part of the Swadesh Darshan scheme, lack environmental impact assessments and necessary approvals. Tampara Lake, vital for biodiversity and tourism, faces ecological risks. The NGT's firm stance highlights the urgency of safeguarding ecologically sensitive areas against unregulated development.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued a stern warning to Odisha state authorities regarding illegal constructions at Tampara Lake, a designated Ramsar site located in Ganjam district. The tribunal indicated that heavy fines could be imposed on state officials, including the chief secretary, if they do not respond promptly to notices concerning these constructions. Advertisement
The NGT's East zone bench, based in Kolkata, expressed its frustration over the lack of action from the state government, noting that more than 16 months have passed since the Wildlife Society of Orissa (WSO) filed a petition addressing the issue. The bench, which includes Justice B Amit Sthalekar and Dr Arun Kumar Verma, highlighted that notices were issued on August 11, 2023, but no response has been received from key officials, including the chief secretary and the chairperson of the State Wetland Authority.
Tampara Lake, which spans 751 acres in the Rushikulya river basin, plays a vital role in the local ecosystem. It is not only a crucial freshwater resource but also serves as a significant nesting ground for the endangered Olive Ridley turtles. The area is known for its biodiversity, making it essential for both environmental conservation and local tourism.
The petition filed by WSO secretary Biswajit Mohanty calls for the removal of permanent structures, such as restaurants, hotels, and resorts, that have been built within the lake area and its 50-meter buffer zone. In addition to the demolition request, the petition seeks environmental compensation for the damage caused by these constructions.
While the Odisha tourism department claims that these developments are part of the Central Government's Swadesh Darshan scheme aimed at promoting tourism, environmentalists argue that no thorough impact assessments have been conducted. They stress that such assessments are crucial to understanding the potential effects of infrastructure projects on the delicate ecosystem of Tampara Lake.
In a previous hearing held on December 11, 2024, the NGT directed the central government to submit a clear affidavit regarding the status of these projects, emphasizing that the national wetlands authority has yet to approve any of the proposed developments. The tribunal's insistence on accountability reflects a growing concern about the balance between development and environmental protection in sensitive areas like Tampara Lake.
As the situation unfolds, it is clear that the NGT is taking a firm stance to ensure that environmental regulations are upheld. The ramifications of this case could set a precedent for how similar issues are handled in the future, particularly in areas designated for conservation. The outcome will likely influence not only local governance but also the broader conversation around sustainable development in ecologically sensitive regions across India.
The NGT's actions highlight the importance of safeguarding natural resources while considering the pressures of tourism and development. As authorities are urged to comply with environmental regulations, the case serves as a reminder of the need for a balanced approach that respects both ecological integrity and economic growth.
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