Order of the National Green Tribunal in the matter of In re: News item published in the “Indian Express” dated 23.11.2020 entitled “Maharashtra: Two Killed, eight injured in methane gas leak in sugar factory” dated 16/08/2021.

The matter related to methane gas leak in a sugar factory (Bapurao Patil Agro Industries Ltd.) in Mohol taluka, Solapur district, Maharashtra, November 21, 2020.

The NGT in its order, December 18, 2020 said that there was clear nexus of the death of two persons with the activities of the factory and this entitled heirs of the deceased to compensation. Also, apart from remedial measures for restoration of the environment, there was a need to identify measures to prevent recurrence of such incidents in future.

In response to the NGT order, an interim report was filed by the expert committee, July 28, 2021.

The report noted the failure of the factory in observing safeguards leading to damage to the soil and deals with the environmental impact of spent wash on soil and remedial measures to be adopted. The committee also suggested a further detailed study to prepare DPR for remedial action.

Counsel for the factory submitted that compensation in terms of the NGT order, December 18, 2022 has been paid and the factory had no objection to take remedial measures recommended in the interim report. The factory has also no objection to a detailed study being conducted through a reputed institute.

The NGT, August 16, 2021 directed that IIT Mumbai should conduct the detailed study, to be completed within three months.