NGT Takes Suo Motu Cognisance Of Garbage, Dead Cattle Dumping Along Bypass In Bhopal

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken suo motu notice of the improper disposal of garbage and dead cattle along Bhopal's bypass near Jhagariya. The agency is worried about potential health risks and environmental harm caused by the practice. The NGT has instructed relevant authorities to adhere to Supreme Court's guidelines in a previous case and take prompt actions to restore the affected area.

The Bhopal Municipal Corporation's collector and the BMC commissioner have been ordered to strictly enforce the Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules-2026 and ensure waste disposal follows the set standards. The State Pollution Control Board has also been directed to take appropriate action.

The NGT observed that a significant amount of waste has been dumped at the site for an extended period. Reports suggest that Bangalore Vehicles transport waste from Katara and nearby locations to the dumping site. A dead cow was found among the waste, and locals reported that a dead horse had been dumped there earlier. The unpleasant smell, stray animals, and decomposing waste have raised concerns about public health and potential infections.

The tribunal warned that violations of waste management rules could lead to punitive actions, environmental compensation, and restoration measures. In line with its 2020 directions on solid and liquid waste management, the NGT stated that local bodies failing to comply consistently may face environmental compensation based on population. For urban local bodies with populations exceeding 10 lakh, the monthly compensation could be Rs 10 lakh.