Order of the National Green Tribunal in the matter of Rohit Prajapati & Others Vs MoEF & CC & Others dated 25/05/2021. Grievance in the application, originally filed before the Pune Bench on April 7, 2016 was against the Vishwamitri Riverfront Development Project (VRDP) at Vadodra, Gujarat, in violation of environmental norms.

The NGT said that in addition to construction of VRDP project without requisite EIA, there were several other issues raised. Even though, the project in question has been given up, there are other issues like  illegal constructions affecting the riverine ecology of Vishwamitri river. The concerned authorities have assured the court that all grievances of the applicant would be duly addressed.

While directing consideration of all the issues by the applicants, the NGT reiterated the direction for implementation of the “Vishwamitri River Action Plan” including the steps for removal of unauthorised structures, demarcation and protection of flood plain zone and other action points as per the river restoration plan.

The applicants have been asked to give a consolidated representation within two weeks listing all pending issues on which consideration and action be completed by the concerned authorities within three months. The applicants would be at liberty to take appropriate remedy if any further grievance survives, according to the NGT order, May 25, 2021.