Mumbai: Divisional Railway Manager Challenges ₹1.59 Crore Environmental Fine By MPCB, Moves NGT

The Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Mumbai, has approached the National Green Tribunal (NGT) against the ₹1,59,22,550 environmental compensation imposed by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB). The appeal, challenging the MPCB’s order dated December 9, 2024, argues that no clear justification was provided for imposing such a hefty fine. Consequently, the DRM has sought the NGT’s intervention, questioning the process followed in levying the penalty.

The entire proceedings stem from news report published by the Free Press Journal (FPJ) on April 10, titled “Mumbai: Picture of Mahim Railway Station’s Track Showing Thick Layer of Garbage Sparks Criticism; Netizens Question Authorities over Cleanliness.” The report highlighted the deplorable condition of the railway tracks at Mahim Station due to accumulated garbage. Taking suo motu cognizance of the issue, the Principal Bench of the NGT initiated an inquiry into the matter.

In response, the MPCB filed an affidavit detailing its investigation. An official site inspection on June 10 revealed that while the main tracks and platforms at Mahim Junction were being cleaned, the railway siding tracks remained heavily littered, primarily due to waste dumped by nearby slum residents.

Following this, on June 21, the MPCB issued directions to Mahim Junction, Western Railway, addressing the improper disposal of solid waste from slum areas onto the railway siding yard. The affidavit further stated that the Office of the Assistant Divisional Engineer (Track/South Lower Parel) acknowledged the persistent issue of waste disposal at Mahim South and North yards, as well as the stabling yard. The railways had then informed the Board that cleaning efforts were ongoing, involving the use of JCB machines.

Accordingly the MPCB took action against the DRM, imposing the ₹1.59 crore fine. Granting a final one-week deadline, the NGT directed the DRM to submit an amended appeal, including all relevant documents. The matter has been adjourned for further hearing on February 21, 2025.