Bhayander : In a much-needed relief for the Mira Bhayandar Municipal Corporation (MBMC), the Bombay High Court has stayed the orders issued by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) directing the civic body to deposit Rs 70 crore in a third party escrow account for not complying with solid waste management norms.
However, upholding other components in the NGT orders, the court has directed the MBMC to implement proper and scientific disposal of waste currently being dumped near Uttan in Bhayander under the supervision of the pollution control board and a time-bound programme for shifting the defunct plant from Dhavgi village to the earmarked plot in Sakvar (Vasai).
It should be noted that, angry about the unbearable stench and consequent health hazard, villagers under the aegis of the Nagri Hakk Sangharsh Samithi had moved the Pune-based Circuit Bench of the NGT, seeking he immediate shifting of the plant and illegal dump yard out of the region.
Sensing the gravity of the situation, the NGT not only set an 18-month time frame to shift the plant and till then ensure proper waste disposal, but also asked the MBMC to deposit Rs 70 crore in an escrow account naming the Konkan Divisional Commissioner as the third party.
However, citing its poor financial health, the MBMC expressed inability to deposit such a huge amount and moved the judiciary seeking reprieve. “Unmindful of the fatal consequences on the environment and the local populace, the MBMC has been blatantly dumping tonnes of waste in the hillocks. Let’s see if this judicial rap makes them wake from slumber,” said James Colasso.
Suresh Golani
