The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a fine of Rs 50,000 each on the state of Gujarat and the Union Territory of Daman and Diu for failing to submit their reports concerning the contamination of groundwater with arsenic and fluoride beyond permissible limits. The decision comes after the NGT took suo motu cognisance of a news report highlighting the widespread issue across various states and union territories.
During a hearing led by NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, it was noted that despite being given multiple opportunities over two years since the notice was issued, both Gujarat and Daman and Diu had not complied with the tribunal’s directive to file their responses. “The inaction exhibits a complete disregard for the tribunal’s directions,” Justice Shrivastava stated in the order dated March 17.
The issue came to light following a news report that detected arsenic in the groundwater of 230 districts across 25 states and fluoride in 469 districts across 27 states. This widespread environmental concern prompted the NGT to seek detailed reports from the affected states and union territories on the measures being taken to address the contamination.
The bench, including judicial member Justice Sudhir Agarwal and expert member A Senthil Vel, expressed disappointment over the lack of urgency shown by the authorities in responding to such a critical public health issue. “Given the circumstances, we were compelled to impose a monetary penalty to underscore the seriousness of the matter,” the order read.
The tribunal has now given an additional four weeks for both Gujarat and Daman and Diu to submit their reports, emphasizing the importance of accountability in environmental governance. The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on July 16, where the NGT expects a full compliance report from both regions.
