NGT Responds to Pollution Crisis in Telangana’s Sangareddy District

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has initiated a suo motu case concerning the discharge of pharmaceutical effluents into Nalla Cheruvu, a significant water body in Dommadugu village, located in Telangana’s Sangareddy district. This action follows reports of protests from local villagers and environmental activists, who have raised alarms about the environmental hazards posed by these practices.

During a recent session, the NGT Bench, led by Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, emphasized that this situation raises critical issues under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. The Bench, which also includes Expert Member A. Senthil Vel, pointed out the serious implications for compliance with environmental regulations as reported in local media.

The Tribunal’s decision stems from a report published on September 24, 2023, which detailed allegations that pharmaceutical companies were discharging toxic waste into the lake. This practice has incited strong reactions from residents, who are calling for immediate remedial measures.

In response to the escalating concerns, the NGT has included several key entities in the proceedings, namely the Central Pollution Control Board, the Telangana State Pollution Control Board, and the District Collector of Sangareddy. The legal representative for the Telangana PCB acknowledged receipt of the notice and requested a period of four weeks to prepare a formal response to the Tribunal.

Next Steps in NGT Proceedings

Recognizing that the case falls within the jurisdiction of the Southern Zonal Bench, the NGT has ordered the transfer of proceedings to Chennai for further examination. All parties involved have been directed to submit their affidavits at least one week prior to the next hearing scheduled for December 3, 2023.

The NGT has stated, “Since the matter falls within the jurisdiction of the Southern Zonal Bench of the Tribunal, the OA is transferred to the Southern Zonal Bench, Chennai, for appropriate further action.” The Tribunal also specified that any respondent who files a reply directly, without legal representation, must be present to assist during the proceedings.

This development highlights the ongoing struggle between industrial practices and environmental protection in India. The NGT’s proactive measures indicate a commitment to enforcing environmental laws and addressing the concerns raised by communities affected by pollution. As the case progresses, it will be crucial to monitor how effectively regulatory bodies respond to the challenges posed by pharmaceutical waste management.