NGT Mandates Vigilant Patrols to Halt Illegal Dumping at Kerwa Dam
In a decisive move to protect a vital water resource, the central bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in Bhopal has issued a critical directive. On Friday, the environmental authority ordered the principal secretary of the Madhya Pradesh Water Resource Department (WRD) to establish a dedicated patrolling and monitoring team. This team, comprising local officials, is tasked with a clear and urgent mission: to ensure that no illegal dumping of building materials or other debris occurs within the full tank level (FTL) of the Kerwa Dam.
Immediate Action Required to Preserve Dam Capacity
The tribunal emphasized that any such illegal dumping directly compromises the dam's storage capacity, posing a significant threat to water security and environmental health. The NGT's order mandates that the newly formed team must take immediate and stringent action if any instances of illegal dumping are observed. This proactive measure is designed to prevent further degradation and maintain the structural and functional integrity of the dam.
The bench explicitly stated that since the Kerwa Dam falls squarely within the jurisdiction of the Water Resource Department, it is the department's fundamental and non-negotiable duty to prevent any unauthorized disposal activities in the area. The tribunal's directive underscores a shift towards greater accountability and on-ground enforcement to combat environmental violations.
Strengthening Institutional Responsibility for Water Bodies
This order highlights the NGT's ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional mechanisms for the protection of water bodies across the region. By compelling the WRD to form a specialized monitoring team, the tribunal is ensuring that local authorities are directly involved in the preservation efforts, enhancing surveillance and response capabilities.
The creation of this patrol team is expected to serve as a deterrent against future violations, while also enabling quicker identification and remediation of any illegal activities. The NGT's intervention reflects a broader commitment to enforcing environmental laws and safeguarding critical infrastructure from negligent or malicious actions that could lead to long-term ecological and public health consequences.
