
NGT stays MoEF&CC notification delegating power for grant of EC to local bodies
The National Green Tribunal on December 3 stayed operation of the notification delegating power for grant of Environmental Clearance (EC) for construction projects along with building permission to local bodies such as municipalities, development authorities and district panchayats. Counsel for the applicant had argued that delegation of powers in the impugned notification renders EIA Notification dated 14.09.2006 having safeguards for protection of environment futile.
Delhi government to pay a fine of Rs 25 cr for dereliction of environmental duties: NGT
The NGT while expressing its displeasure of the lackadaisical attitude of the Delhi government over the issue of unregulated handling of plastics ordered the Delhi government on December 3 to deposit a sum of Rs 25 crore towards the cost of damage to the environment with the Central Pollution Control Board for restoration of the damage within one month.
Vision Document for Taj Mahal to be finalised soon: SC informed
The Supreme Court has been informed that the Vision Document for the protection and preservation of Taj Mahal is near finalisation and will be ready in a couple of days which will be then submitted to Uttar Pradesh. Additional solicitor general submitted before the SC on November 29 that the first draft of the Management Plan to be given to UNESCO is expected to be finalised within eight weeks. Further with regard to declaring Agra as a heritage city, Uttar Pradesh has been asked to give a proposal.
NGT asks UPPCB to look into pollution by Indian Potash Limited
The NGT on December 5 directed the District Magistrate Muzzafarnagar, Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board and Central Pollution Control Board to look into the allegation that Indian Potash Limited, Titavi Sugar Complex, Titavi, Muzzafarnagar has been discharging effluents, polluting the water and affecting public health and health of the animals.