Jagran correspondent, New Delhi. Common citizens are expected not to take part in any activity that helps in increasing pollution during the implementation of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)-3 and IV, but what can be said when government offices do the same.
Despite the ban, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken cognizance of the complaint filed against illegal construction and demolition in a government office. A bench headed by NGT Chairman Justice Prakash Srivastava directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to take immediate strict action in case of construction and demolition activities.
Next hearing will be held on 17th February
NGT directed CAQM to conduct site inspection within 10 days and take punitive and corrective action if environmental violations are found. The bench directed the CAQM to file the action taken report before the next hearing on February 17. Applicant Shubham Verma filed the application alleging that despite the implementation of Group 3 and 4 from November 22, large scale demolition and construction work is being done by the Center for Development of Telematic for the construction of about 80 toilets in the office premises.
He said that this construction activity is causing dust and pollution and due to this his two-month old newborn daughter is suffering from serious health problems. The application also said that he himself is suffering from allergic bronchitis and due to this he is forced to stay away from his daughter. The applicant has sought direction to pay compensation of Rs 7.11 lakh for the medical expenses and mental distress caused due to pollution. The applicant said that a complaint in this regard was lodged on November 22 on the Green Delhi app launched by the Delhi government, but till now it is pending and no action has been taken. Along with this, a complaint was also given to CAQM in this regard on 23 November, but no action was taken.