Home / Environment / NGT Fines Bhopal Over Polluted Lower Lake
NGT Fines Bhopal Over Polluted Lower Lake
13 Aug
Summary
- NGT orders penalty calculation for BMC's sewage discharge.
- Lower Lake, a Ramsar site, suffers 8-10 MLD untreated sewage.
- Environmental compensation to be assessed for wetland damage.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has mandated the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board to assess environmental compensation against the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC). This ruling stems from the continuous discharge of 8 to 10 MLD of untreated sewage into the Lower Lake, a significant Ramsar site and part of the Bhoj Wetland.
The green watchdog's Bhopal bench issued the order in response to a petition highlighting the severe pollution. Despite a planned 10 MLD sewage treatment plant expected by December 2027, no immediate treatment provisions are in place, violating environmental laws and Supreme Court directives.
Furthermore, the NGT is investigating alleged violations of Wetland Rules, 2017, concerning new constructions along the lake's banks and the deliberate damage of trees using chemical substances. The State Wetland Authority has been directed to submit a detailed report on these matters within 30 days.
The tribunal has also requested comprehensive information from the BMC regarding sewage treatment plants, water supply, and drains impacting both Lower and Upper Lakes, emphasizing the need for preventative measures.
