NGT orders closure of industries in Delhi's residential areas

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered the closure of industrial units running in "non-conforming" residential areas of Rohini in Delhi. It has also slapped a fine of Rs 50,000 on the Delhi government and others for their "defaults and inaction" towards the violation of rules.

The green panel said the units causing pollution, including unauthorised car workshops in violation of the law, must be stopped immediately, and a report of action taken may be submitted before the tribunal within one month. The amount of Rs 50,000 should be deposited with the Central Pollution Control Board (CNCB) within a month.

The tribunal asked the Delhi Chief Secretary to send the compliance report by November 30 by e-mail and posted the matter for consideration on December 3. He has also been directed by the tribunal to call a meeting of the authorities concerned and seek an action plan to be prepared and implemented by a team comprising the DCP of the area, SDM and senior officer of Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC).

This direction came after a plea was filed by a city resident. It was undisputed that illegal activities were going on and that there was total apathy on part of the Delhi Pollution Control Committee and the police authorities in performing their duties, said a bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel.