NGT Guidelines Compliance
In a significant move towards ensuring environmental protection and legal compliance, District Magistrate cum Deputy Commissioner Ananya Mittal convened a comprehensive review meeting to address the strict adherence to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) guidelines in infrastructure construction. This high-level meeting took place in the District Collectorate office and saw the participation of several key officials from various departments, highlighting the district administration's commitment to environmental sustainability and rule of law.
The focal point of the discussion was the stringent enforcement of NGT rules within the eco-sensitive zone of the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary and along the banks of the Swarnarekha River. Mittal began the meeting by underlining the importance of protecting these areas from unauthorized construction and potential ecological damage. He emphasized that any violation of NGT guidelines would be met with strict action, reflecting the administration's zero-tolerance policy towards environmental transgressions.
During the meeting, a detailed review of ongoing and completed constructions in these sensitive zones was conducted. It was reported that 206 illegal constructions had been identified during recent investigations. Of these, 62 buildings were erected within 10 meters of the Swarnarekha riverbank, while 134 were within 10-15 meters, both in clear violation of NGT norms. These findings raised serious concerns about the enforcement of environmental regulations in the district.
Mittal directed the officials to expedite the investigation process and submit a detailed report within three days. The report is expected to categorize the illegal constructions based on land type—whether they are on non-cultivated or Raiti land—and ascertain whether building bylaws were adhered to during the construction on Raiti land. To ensure accuracy and accountability, a special team comprising the concerned Circle Officer, Municipal Body Officer, and officials from the Swarnarekha Project was formed to verify the factual positions of these violations and report their findings within the stipulated time frame.
The Deputy Commissioner also issued strict instructions to all relevant officers to ensure that Pollution Control Board standards are rigorously followed in all building projects. He stressed that any construction activity must be environmentally friendly and compliant with legal requirements, thereby minimizing ecological impact and preserving the natural heritage of the region.
Deputy Forest Conservator and Field Director in Jamshedpur, Abhishek Kumar, provided insights into the environmental implications of unauthorized constructions. He highlighted the critical need to maintain the ecological balance within the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, which serves as a vital habitat for diverse flora and fauna. Kumar's inputs underscored the necessity of coordinated efforts to safeguard these protected areas from encroachment and degradation.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Rohit Sinha and Additional Commissioner of Mango Municipal Corporation Ranjit Lohara presented updates on the ongoing compliance measures and future plans to prevent illegal construction activities. They reiterated their departments' commitment to working in synergy with other agencies to uphold environmental laws and protect sensitive zones.
