Illegal encroachment and pollution threaten Ganga river: NGT

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has observed illegal encroachment on the Ganga River in Sarjupurba, downstream of Ranighat in Kanpur district, Uttar Pradesh, in violation of its 2017 order. According to NGT Chairman and Justice Prakash Srivastava, garbage, polythene, and sewage are being discharged into the river.

Construction activities continue despite the 2017 order prohibiting development within 100 meters of the riverbanks. The NGT had previously noted the lack of floodplain notification and the absence of sewage treatment in drains leading to ghats.

On December 4, 2023, the NGT highlighted that the Ganga floodplain in question had not been officially notified. Additionally, no efforts were made towards sewage treatment in drains leading to ghats or bathing sites. The NGT requested a comprehensive response from the Kanpur Municipal Corporation regarding these issues.

The bench has directed the Uttar Pradesh Council to respond within three weeks, emphasizing compliance with the River Ganga (Rejuvenation, Protection and Management) Authority Order, 2016. The next hearing is on August 5, 2024.

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