The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has constituted a joint committee to look into a plea alleging operation of hazardous industries in south-east Delhi’s Sarita Vihar.
A Bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel constituted a joint committee comprising representatives from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Delhi Pollution Control Committee and Sub-Divisional Magistrate of South-East district, to take action.
The directions came on a plea moved by the Aali Vihar Vikas Manch, which alleged that hazardous dyeing units were operating in Bhim Colony, Aali Vihar and Sarita Vihar.
“At least 50 factories are causing air, water and noise pollution in the area and also choking the water-flow systems. When the drains get choked, the water spills out on to the roads. Hazardous chemicals are affecting the water quality,” the Bench observed.
The plea further stated, “There is also burning of fossil fuel to run the machines, which are producing a lot of harmful smoke. Groundwater is being drawn to wash and chemically colour jeans. The polluted water is then discharged in the open. Chemical sprays are also affecting the air quality.”
Noting that the operation of the dyeing units is adversely affecting public health, the green panel said that the CPCB will be the nodal agency. “The joint committee may furnish a report to this tribunal about the factual aspects and the action taken,” the Bench said. The panel has been directed to submit a report within a month.