NGT Criticizes Haryana Environmental Authority for Delay in Deciding on Environmental Clearance
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has criticized the Haryana State Environmental Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA) for its delays in deciding whether a 225-acre licensed colony in Sector 47 required environmental clearance. This comes after SEIAA failed to resolve the issue despite a directive issued on July 25 of the previous year. The tribunal has now given SEIAA four weeks to make a decision.
Residents Allege Illegality and Environmental Hazards in Malibu Towne
In 2022, a resident of Malibu Towne filed a petition with the NGT, alleging that ten diesel generators were operating illegally in the colony’s greenbelt area and that there was widespread dumping of construction and demolition (C&D) waste. The Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) conducted inspections in March 2022 and found that Malibu Towne was discharging untreated sewage into its drains.
Closure of Developer’s Operations For Failure to Comply with Environmental Clearances
As a result of these findings, the HSPCB issued a closure notice to the colony’s developer in December 2022. This notice was based on the developer’s failure to obtain the necessary environmental clearances and other permissions. The directive also imposed restrictions on property sales, possession, and occupancy in the project. Furthermore, the electricity provider, DHBVN, was instructed to refrain from providing new connections, and all ongoing construction activities were suspended.
NGT Directs SEIAA to Investigate Need for Environmental Clearance
The developer argued that there were no mandatory requirements for environmental clearance when the colony was initially developed several decades ago. In response to this argument, the NGT directed SEIAA in July of the following year to inspect the case and determine if permission was indeed needed.
During a hearing on September 19, Rahul Khurana, representing SEIAA, requested an additional four weeks to reach a conclusion. Recognizing the urgency of the matter, the NGT emphasized the need for prompt action. Judicial magistrate Sudhir Agarwal and expert member Dr. Afroz Ahmad stated in the order that the process should proceed as indicated. The next hearing is scheduled for October 10.
The NGT’s criticism of SEIAA’s delays in deciding on environmental clearance for the licensed colony in Sector 47 reflects the accountability required from regulatory authorities in guarding the environment. The allegations of illegally operating diesel generators, improper disposal of waste, and untreated sewage are cause for concern and emphasize the importance of complying with environmental regulations. The closure notice issued to the developer underscores the seriousness of non-compliance and reigns in further construction until the necessary clearances are obtained. As the SEIAA continues to investigate the case, it is crucial for timely action to be taken to preserve and protect the environment for the benefit of the residents and the larger community.
