Based on PUNE PULSE Report, NGT Initiates Action on Pollution in Pune’s Katraj Lake
Based on PUNE PULSE Report, NGT Initiates Action on Pollution in Pune's Katraj Lake
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken suo motu cognisance of the pollution plaguing Pune’s Katraj Lake, registering a case based on an article published in the “PUNE PULSE”.
Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and expert member Dr A Senthil Vel initiated the proceedings after reviewing the news reports, noting significant concerns regarding environmental norms compliance and the implementation of scheduled enactments.
The first case was registered in response to our article titled “Pune: Foul smell from lake troubles Katraj and Bibwewadi society residents; Demand urgent action from PMC,” published on February 12, 2024. Read Here:
The article shed light on the problem of sewage disposal in Katraj Lake, located within Pune’s Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park. It highlighted how untreated sewage discharge was leading to foul odor and mosquito infestations, adversely affecting the local residents.
Additionally, our news report pointed out the release of untreated industrial and domestic waste into the lake, raising concerns about environmental pollution and public health hazards. The matter was first heard on March 22, 2024.
In an Interview then with Pune Pulse with Tanmay Kanitkar, Social Activist, had said “Sewage/untreated water must not be released into any kind of water body. Still, untreated water gets released in any kind of water body such as Katraj Lake, Pashan Lake etc. So, whenever, the point of beautification is there, only construction-related activities are considered like building a jogging track, other types of constructions etc. But nothing is done in terms of maintaining water bodies, clean water etc. Also, water hyacinth is increasing in water bodies. The reason for this is the release of untreated water in water bodies. Tenders of lakhs/crores of rupees get issued but this is only temporary. The main reason for this is sewage/untreated water in water bodies. Action for this is required which is not being done.”
In light of these revelations, the NGT issued notices to key stakeholders, including the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), and the District Collector of Pune.
The matter has been scheduled for hearing on May 28 before the Western Zonal Bench Pune of NGT.
During the proceedings, MPCB, CPCB, PMC, and PCMC were represented by their respective advocates, emphasizing the importance of addressing the pollution concerns and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
