Order of the National Green Tribunal (Eastern Zone Bench, Kolkata) in the matter of Sajay Laloo Vs State of Meghalaya & Others dated 19/01/2018 regarding establishment of STPs in the town of Jowai, Meghalaya. The affidavit filed by the Chief Secretary, Govt. of Meghalaya states that Jowai Municipal Board has set up common ETPs and STPs and the letter calling for expression of interest has been floated for engagement of a suitable and qualified consultant for preparation of the DPR. The Municipal Board has issued notices to all households within its jurisdiction to set up septic tanks and soak pits.

The Court noted that septic tanks and soak pits are now obsolete techniques and expensive for the common households and the most suitable method would be to establish common sewerage network led to a common STP. NGT asks the Jowai Municipal Board and the Urban Development Deptt, Govt. of Meghalaya to consider adopting this method taking into consideration the topography of the region. This would also be applicable to the city of Shillong and other Municipal areas.

Previous Related Order Dated 27 November 2017 [2]