Contractor of Ratle project dumped muck in Chenab, NGT finds, Pg2

Key Highlights:

• The National Green Tribunal (NGT) held Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited (MEIL) liable for damaging the Chenab river's ecology due to illegal dumping during the Ratle Hydroelectric Power Project construction.
• The NGT has directed the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change to form an expert committee to assess restoration costs within three months, to be paid by MEIL.
• MEIL was awarded the engineering, procurement, and construction contract for the 850 MW Ratle project in January 2022.
• The allegations of illegal dumping of muck were raised in a November 2023 letter-petition by the Municipal Committee of Thathri.

Detailed Insights:

• The NGT's decision was based on field visits and a report by a joint committee of state, central, and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) officials.
• MEIL has been directed to explore developing a biodiversity or forest park using the excavated muck, similar to the Kishanganga Power Project.
• The Union Environment Ministry and the J&K Pollution Control Committee have been directed to pursue penal action against environmental clearance violations.
• The petition warned that rising water levels due to the dumping could devastate shops and homes in Thathri during the monsoon season.

Key Concepts Involved:

• National Green Tribunal (NGT): A specialized judicial body in India dealing with environmental protection and conservation.
• Environmental Clearance: A multi-stage process ensuring projects adhere to environmental regulations and minimize ecological impact.
• Muck: Excavated soil, rock, and debris from construction or mining activities.