Order of the National Green Tribunal (Western Zone Bench, Pune) in the matter of Bhavesh Arun Karekar & Others Vs MoEF&CC & Others dated 15/04/2024.

The matter related to non-compliance of the terms and conditions of Consent to Operate and Environmental Clearance (EC) granted to M/s. Ashapur Meinchem Ltd., village Rowale, taluka Dapoli, district Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. Ashapur Meinchem is involved in mining of bauxite ore.

The court asked for a report in the matter from a joint committee comprising one representative each from the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC); Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB); Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) and Collector, District Ratnagiri.

The committee was directed to visit the site after informing the applicants counsel and submit a factual and action taken report with regard to the non-compliances, if any, as well as the amount of EDC. The Committee was also directed to conduct an inspection prior to the onset of monsoon. The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) would be the nodal agency for coordination and logistic support, the order added. The matter has been put up for further consideration on July 3, 2024.