National Green Tribunal Slaps Rs 50,000 Fine on Delhi Pollution Control Committee for Delayed Environmental Fund Transfer
In a significant ruling, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a cost of Rs 50,000 on the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) for an unexplained delay exceeding one year in transferring Rs 8 lakh collected as environmental compensation. The funds were designated for afforestation efforts in village Nilothi, located in West Delhi, highlighting the tribunal's strict stance on compliance with environmental directives.
Background of the Case and Tribunal Orders
The matter originated from a complaint filed by advocate Pardeep Kadiyan concerning the operation of illegal stone-crushing units near Udai Vihar, Phase-II, in village Nilothi. On July 27, 2022, the NGT, comprising judicial member Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and expert member Dr Afroz Ahmad, directed DPCC to recover environmental compensation from the violators and utilize the funds for local environmental restoration. Subsequently, on November 23, 2023, the tribunal issued a specific order, mandating DPCC to release Rs 8 lakh to the Delhi Forest Department within one week for afforestation in village Nilothi or adjoining areas.
Delay and Tribunal's Response
Despite the clear directives, DPCC only transferred the amount on December 30, 2024, leading to a hearing in January 2025 where the fine was imposed. The order detailing this penalty was officially shared on February 26, 2026. In its defense, DPCC submitted a report dated January 7, attributing the delay to the shifting of its office from the ISBT Building to the IT Tower. However, the tribunal categorically rejected this explanation, labeling it as "unreasonable and unacceptable."
The bench emphasized that non-compliance with NGT orders constitutes an offence under the valid sanctions of the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010. While refraining from initiating prosecution against DPCC officials, including its chairman and member secretary, the tribunal stated that imposing costs was essential to curb the "widely prevalent tendency of non-compliance" and the offering of "lame excuses."
Key Excerpts from the Tribunal Order
The order explicitly noted: "We find the reasons given for delay of more than one year in transfer of the amount by DPCC to Department of Forest and Wildlife, GNCTD to be wholly unreasonable and unacceptable. Accordingly, DPCC is directed to deposit an amount of Rs 50,000/- as costs for non-compliance with the order passed by this tribunal." The imposed amount will be utilized to enhance facilities for the public visiting the tribunal, ensuring that the penalty contributes to broader environmental governance efforts.
Implications and Broader Context
This ruling underscores the NGT's commitment to enforcing environmental laws and holding authorities accountable for delays in implementing crucial ecological measures. The case serves as a stark reminder to governmental bodies about the importance of timely action in environmental conservation, particularly in urban areas like Delhi where pollution and deforestation are pressing concerns. By penalizing DPCC, the tribunal aims to set a precedent that discourages future non-compliance and promotes a culture of responsibility in environmental management.
