Order of the National Green Tribunal (Western Zone Bench, Pune) in the matter of Vanashakti & Others dated 03/07/2023.

The matter related to dumping of debris at the bank of Mithi river near Tapeshwar Mandir, Aarey forest, which is prohibited as per the Management of Construction and Demolition Waste Rules, 2016. As proof, photographs have been given. The court was apprised of the fact that the authorities were informed about the illegal dumping of debris being done at the bank of Mithi river but no action has been taken.

The NGT directed constitution of a joint committee comprising of one member each of the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM), Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and the Collector, Mumbai Suburban.

The joint committee has been directed to visit the site in question for fact finding and assess environmental damage in terms of water pollution, damage to ecology, impact on health of nearby residents, change in hydrology. Further, the committee was asked to assess environmental damage compensation and recommend remediation measures along with timeframe, budget and responsibility.