Order of the National Green Tribunal in the matter of Dr. Pawan Kumar Banta Vs Union of India & Others dated 12/05/2020 regarding unauthorised and illegal development and construction of eleven storeyed hotel/apartments on the agricultural land measuring 03-17-68 hectares at Up Mohal Kiari/Rirka, Tehsil Shimla (R), District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh falling within the Municipal limits of Shimla.

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A report filed by the Director, Town and Country Planning, Himachal Pradesh Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, Shimla, State Environment Impact Assessment Authority, Himachal Pradesh and the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board makes it clear that the project proponent does not have Environmental Clearance (EC). There is nothing to show compliance of requirement of Air and Water Acts.

The NGT directed that Director, Town and Country Planning, H.P, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, Shimla, SEIAA, Himachal Pradesh and the State PCB should ensure that the project does not proceed further in violation of law. Action should also be taken for prosecution and assessment and recovery of environmental compensation. And a report filed on the matter by August 31, 2020.