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NGT Orders Probe into Pollution Allegations
30 Jan
Summary
- NGT orders six-member committee to inspect pollution.
- Allegations include hazardous waste facility operating without permits.
- Ghod river contamination confirmed by CPCB report.
The western bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered a comprehensive inspection of Nimgaon Bhogi village and surrounding areas due to persistent pollution allegations. A six-member joint committee, including representatives from MoEFCC, CPCB, MPCB, NEERI, and health authorities, has been tasked with assessing the environmental conditions.
The NGT's directive follows a case filed in October 2025 by the Nimgaon Bhogi gram panchayat and the tehsildar of Shirur tehsil. They allege that Maharashtra Enviro Power Limited's hazardous waste treatment facility in Ranjangaon industrial area has been operating without essential statutory permissions, including environmental clearance and consent under pollution control laws.
Residents have reported foul odors, hazardous gas emissions, and contaminated wastewater discharge, leading to significant health problems. Leakages from landfill cells have been ongoing since 2015, contaminating groundwater and Pazar talav, as noted in a 2015 NEERI report. The CPCB has also confirmed contamination of the Ghod river.
The NGT, convinced of non-compliance with environmental laws, admitted the case and emphasized the need for an independent assessment. Despite objections from respondents, the tribunal upheld its directive for a transparent site visit in the presence of all concerned parties. The MPCB had recommended a ₹5 crore penalty, but its recovery is temporarily stayed by the tribunal.
