NGT fines builders in Yamuna flood plains

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has fined nine colonies and three builders in Agra Rs.1.41 crore under its "Polluter Pays" initiative, an environmentalist said.

The fine is the estimated cost of a pipeline to sewage treatment plant. Besides, the Agra Development Authority (ADA) on Friday issued notice to the builders and colonisers.

The NGT order on Thursday came after the petitioner D.K. Joshi, an environmentalist, furnished proof of a pipeline releasing waste and sewer directly into Yamuna river.

Justice Swantra Kumar, heading the special bench, came down heavily both on the government agencies and the private builders for raising structures on the river's flood plains and discharging sewer and solid waste into the river.

Last month, the NGT had fined the Agra Municipal Corporation Rs.1 lakh as penalty to be charged from the officials for dumping solid waste on the river bed.

The next date of hearing is October 12.

Petitioner D.K. Joshi welcomed the NGT order saying he was only concerned with checking pollution in the river and ensuring the minimal flow in Yamuna round the year.

"Those who have destroyed the river, the lifeline of the entire Braj Mandal, will be identified soon and law will take its course," Joshi said.