The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has sharply rebuked district magistrates in Delhi for their failure to combat illegal borewells, imposing fines and threatening arrests for non-compliance with its directives.
In a stern order issued on January 8, the NGT has levied a Rs 10,000 fine on each district magistrate for not submitting compliance reports concerning the sealing of illegal borewells. The tribunal, expressing dissatisfaction with the response to its August 2024 directive, highlighted the apparent disregard for environmental responsibilities by local authorities.
The NGT had previously ordered the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC), and the district magistrates to take decisive action against unauthorized borewells in the capital. However, a lack of reporting from the magistrates and insufficient data from the DJB on actions taken has led the tribunal to question their dedication to environmental protection.
In a notable development, the tribunal also issued show cause notices to the Chief Executive Officer of the DJB and all Deputy Commissioners (Revenue)/DMs, demanding explanations for their non-compliance. They face possible prosecution under Section 26 of the NGT Act, which could include arrest and detention to ensure adherence to tribunal orders.
The bench, comprising judicial member Arun Kumar Tyagi and expert member Afroz Ahmad, remarked on the seriousness of the matter, stating that the majesty of the tribunal cannot be undermined by such willful default. The judges have directed the concerned officials to deposit the fines with the Registrar General of the tribunal within one month and alerted the Chief Secretary to inform the Chief Minister and Lieutenant Governor of the need for immediate corrective action.
Moreover, the tribunal criticized the Delhi government for not transferring Rs 70 crore collected as environmental compensation from violators to the DPCC. This fund was intended for the remediation of environmental damage caused by the illegal extraction of groundwater.
