Home / Environment / NGT Presses Himachal to Address Kullu's Waste Crisis as High Court Monitors
NGT Presses Himachal to Address Kullu's Waste Crisis as High Court Monitors
17 Nov
Summary
- NGT seeks Himachal chief secretary's affidavit on Kullu waste management
- NGT and High Court proceedings to run concurrently on the issue
- Chief secretary directed to ensure compliance with Solid Waste Management Rules
In November 2025, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken strong action to address the waste management crisis in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. The case was triggered by a viral video earlier this year, which showed the popular hill station buried under piles of garbage.
The NGT has now directed the Himachal Pradesh chief secretary to submit a detailed affidavit on the steps taken to ensure compliance with the Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016, in Kullu district. The Tribunal has also asked the chief secretary to instruct the adjudicating officer to take suo motu cognizance of violations and impose penalties on defaulting departments, officers, and private parties.
Interestingly, the Himachal Pradesh High Court had also taken suo motu cognizance of the issue and is conducting independent monitoring. However, the NGT has declined to step back, stating that both forums can proceed concurrently, with the High Court's orders taking precedence in case of any conflict.
