NGT Takes Action Against Unlawful Road Work in Arunachal Pradesh's Sensitive Areas

The National Green Tribunal's eastern zonal bench has intervened in illegal road construction in Papum Pare district, Arunachal Pradesh. Following a published report, the tribunal urged involvement of local departments to oversee environmental regulations. Concerns include ecological impact and statutory compliance concerning fragile catchment areas.

The eastern zonal bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in Kolkata has moved against an alleged illegal road construction project in the environmentally sensitive zones of Papum Pare district, Arunachal Pradesh. This action follows a report released in a local newspaper last year.

Comprising judicial member Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and expert member Dr. Afroz Ahmad, the bench reviewed an April 22 report. The report claimed that road construction activities occurred in sensitive catchment areas between Ganga-Taipu and Ganga-Tago without necessary environmental safeguards.

Emphasizing the gravity of these claims, the tribunal mandated the involvement of Arunachal Pradesh State Department of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, alongside the Public Works Department, as key respondents. A deadline of one month has been set for them to present their responses.

(With inputs from agencies.)