Order of the National Green Tribunal regarding Tapeshwar Singh Bhati, 159, Timber Scrap Market, Kota, Rajasthan Vs State of Rajasthan through Principal Secretary, Toursim, Rajasthan dated 31/01/2023.

Grievance in the application is against apprehended damage to the environment by proposed activities during ‘Maru Mahotsav 2023’ at Jaisalmer from February 2-5, 2023.

The applicant has stated that on 4th and 5th February, 2023 after sunset, cultural program is to be held which will involve fireworks, laser beams and sound systems at high volume. Ten to fifteen thousand persons are likely to attend. The program is to be held at Sum and Khuhdi Dunes near Jaisalmer, close to the Desert National Park (DNP), Jaisalmer and 200-400 meters from bird sanctuary with endangered Great Indian Bustard (GIB), (also known as Godawan).

The court said that apart from disturbance to the wildlife and the ecosystem of dunes by fireworks, laser show and high volume sound to which objection has been raised by the wildlife department, adequacy of sanitation and hygiene is to be ascertained when such large gathering will assemble. Further, the issue of adverse impact of unregulated use of vehicles and consequent generation of dust and smoke and impact on camels has also to be looked into.

The bench headed by Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel directed a factual and action taken report in the matter from PCCF Wildlife, Rajasthan, Rajasthan, Chairman, State PCB and District Magistrate, Jaisalmer by February 3, 2023. Notice should be issued to the project proponent - Principal Secretary, Tourism, Rajasthan the order said and added that the authorities should " take such action in the matter as is necessary to comply with the Rule of Law and for protection of wildlife and environment and the Desert National Park without waiting for further orders also".