National Green Tribunal Directs Action Against Industrial Units in Muzzafarnagar

The National Green Tribunal has issued directives to the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) regarding environmental violations in district Muzzafarnagar, Uttar Pradesh. These violations primarily pertain to industrial units flouting environmental norms.

Directive Details:

The Tribunal has instructed the UPPCB to take necessary actions, including imposing environmental compensation, against industrial units found guilty of violating environmental regulations. Furthermore, the UPPCB must submit an action taken report to the Registrar General of the Tribunal within four months.

Committee Investigation:

In response to an original application filed by an aggrieved organization, the Tribunal appointed a committee to investigate the matter. The committee visited the site, collected samples, and conducted analyses. The final report submitted on April 4, 2024, highlighted various industrial units’ non-compliance with established norms.

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Allegations and Concerns:

The application, represented by Advocate Aditya Giri, raised concerns over the escalating environmental pollution in Nirana village, Post Bhikke, Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh. Since 2010, residents of the village have been experiencing adverse health effects, including cancer, strange skin diseases, heart conditions, and respiratory ailments.

Water Contamination:

The plea detailed instances of water contamination caused by industrial waste discharge. Laboratory tests conducted in 2016 revealed bacterial contamination originating from industrial processes and silt from degraded catchments. The pollution load has intensified over the years, posing significant risks to public health and the environment.

Escalating Pollution:

Industrial activities in the area continue to escalate, exacerbating air, soil, and water pollution levels. The unchecked discharge of untreated wastewater contributes to sewage pooling, groundwater contamination, and the proliferation of disease vectors such as mosquitoes.

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Failure of Authorities:

The plea highlights the failure of authorities to fulfill their environmental responsibilities. It also accuses respondents of misappropriating funds meant for corporate social responsibility, depriving villagers of essential services like clean drinking water.

The situation underscores the urgent need for decisive action to mitigate environmental degradation and safeguard public health in Muzzafarnagar. Enforcement of environmental regulations and allocation of resources for pollution control are imperative to address the pressing concerns raised by the affected community.