NGT refuses to stay construction of Rabindra Bhawan in Ranchi

The National Green Tribunal has refused to order stopping the construction of Rabindra Bhawan, proposed to be a cultural hub of Ranchi, in Jharkhand, noting that the structure was replacement of an already existing Town Hall building.

A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, however, asked Ranchi Municipal Corporation to look into contention that there were no open spaces and the project would result in public park being covered.

The green panel asked the municipal body to ensure that the construction is carried out in accordance with rules and regulations.

"These applications seek stopping of construction of Rabindra Bhawan project at Ranchi under the direction of Urban Development Department of the Jharkhand Government. The said building is proposed to be a cultural hub of the State.

"The foundation stone was laid down by the President of India in the place of existing Town Hall building which was in dilapidated condition as stated on behalf of the contesting respondent.

"We do not find any reason to interfere with the construction of the project, having regard to the objectives of the said project and the fact that it is an replacement of an already existing centre," the bench, also comprising Justice S P Wangdi and expert member Nagin Nanda said yesterday.

The tribunal was hearing pleas filed by Jharkhand Civil Society and Bikash Kumar Singh seeking stopping of construction of Rs 155 crore Rabindra Bhawan project.

The earlier building had been demolished as it was in a dilapidated condition.

The plea claimed that the building was being constructed on a public park which is used by the nearby residents of the locality, more so children, who are severely affected and aggrieved by the "arbitrary" decision of the municipal corporation.