Order of the National Green Tribunal (Central Zone Bench, Bhopal) in the matter of Yadram Vs State of Rajasthan & Others dated 23/01/2024.

The grievance in the application is mining activities within the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ area) in violation of existing rules and orders of Supreme Court of India in W.P. (Civil) No. 653/1994 in which SC vide order, November 17, 2004 has directed that no blasting operations are allowed within 10 km of the area.

The NGT said that for consideration of all these points following questions are required to be clarified by the authorities:

i. Whether this area comes within the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ area)

ii. Whether the adhoc moratorium is applicable in the present activities

iii. Whether the activities are small, micro and micro level industries

iv. Whether the activities are within the non-polluting activities/industries

v. Whether the operations are eco-friendly. vi. SEIAA and RSPCB, Rajasthan are directed to specifically reply these points

vii. Whether the industry comes within the red or orange or green category.

The NGT also directed notice to be issued to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). CPCB, MoEF&CC and all the concerned authorities have been directed to submit their reply within three weeks.