Green rule flout: NGT tells PCB to fine HMC
Kolkata: The NGT directed the WBPCB to impose a penalty on Howrah Municipal Corporation (HMC) under the Environment Protection Act, 1986. It also instructed the board to assess environmental compensation for continued violation of environmental laws within two months.
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The Eastern Bench of the NGT criticised HMC for failing to submit an action taken report on measures it took to manage the Belgachhia landfill, which collapsed earlier this year, and for not preparing a solid waste management plan. The tribunal directed the HMC commissioner to appear before it in virtual mode at the next hearing. The principal secretary or additional chief secretary of the urban development department was instructed to file an affidavit explaining the steps taken for compliance with the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016.
The NGT took suo motu cognizance of the TOI report dated March 24, 2025, on the overburdened Howrah dumpyard. Environment activist Subhas Datta was directed to assist the court as an applicant in the matter. "It is evident there is no proper handling, management, processing, and disposal of solid waste within the HMC jurisdiction, and there is flagrant violation of provisions of SWM Rules," the order said.
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