NGT directs TNPCB to set timeline for IIT-M’s comprehensive study on pollution issues in Neyveli
The bench notes that the internal technical committee constituted by the TNPCB had submitted individual reports, but there were differences of opinion among its members on preparing a comprehensive report
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) to set a timeline for IIT-Madras to conduct a comprehensive study on pollution issues in Neyveli. This decision came after disagreements among members of a technical committee constituted by TNPCB, which resulted in differing reports on the subject.
The NGT's ruling was issued on August 12, following two suo motu cases based on news reports concerning alleged pollution around Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) India and the presence of mercury in water. The Bench, comprising Justice Pushpa Sathyanarayana and expert member Prashant Gargava, noted that while private laboratory reports found mercury and selenium below the level of quantification, the TNPCB's own laboratory had detected mercury in six of 19 surface water samples.
The NGT has asked TNPCB to file a status report covering the Terms of Reference (ToR) issued to IIT-Madras, the timeline for the study, and other relevant details.
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