Lakshadweep Tent Cities Face Green Tribunal Scrutiny

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has mandated strict adherence to environmental regulations for the tent city project in Lakshadweep. The project, involving prefabricated structures at Bangaram Island and Thinnakara Island, must be in accordance with the islands' carrying capacities.

The NGT's southern bench directed the Lakshadweep Pollution Control Committee (LPCC) to conduct a thorough inspection and submit a detailed compliance report within eight weeks. This report will cover conditions from both 'Consent to Establish' (August 6, 2024) and 'Consent to Operate' (January 17, 2025) permits.

District Collector, Kavaratti; LPCC; Department of Forest & Environment; and the Lakshadweep Tourism Development Corporation are tasked with constant monitoring of tent city operations and the islands' overall environmental health. The NGT highlighted the pristine nature of Lakshadweep islands, including Bangaram, stressing the need for adequate environmental safeguards for their fragile ecosystems.

The case originated from a letter petition concerning alleged improper waste and sewage management. While a technical committee previously found M/s. Praveg Limited's operations compliant with stringent environmental conditions in 2024 and 2025, the NGT requires ongoing compliance. M/s. Praveg Limited and any other operating entities must ensure full adherence to environmental norms and submit regular reports to LPCC.

Further directives include biennial audits of waste management and semi-annual drone surveys by the LPCC to monitor environmental conditions and implement remedial measures if degradation is spotted. M/s. Praveg Limited has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the NGT judgment.