You must have read about NGT banning firecrackers in areas where air quality is “poor”. But do you know what NGT is and what its functions are?
NGT is the National Green Tribunal established in October 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act 2010. A specialised judicial body, it has over the years emerged as a significant player in environmental regulation in the country, passing strict orders on issues ranging from pollution and deforestation to waste management. People can approach the tribunal against projects that affect the environment or seek compensation for damages caused due to violation of environmental laws.
Civil cases heard The NGT deals with all civil cases under the seven laws related to the environment which are the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974; the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977; the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980; the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981; the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986; the Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991; and the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. Any violation pertaining to these laws or any decision taken by the Government under these laws can be challenged before the NGT. From individuals and conservation groups to the community at large, anyone can file a case against everyone – from the State pollution control board to the Union government- at the NGT by paying a fee. The cases are to be disposed of within six months from the date of filing. The proceedings of the tribunal are conducted only in English. The NGT has as much power to grant relief as it has to impose a penalty for non-compliance of its orders
How does the NGT function?
The main bench of the NGT is in New Delhi, with regional benches in Pune, Bhopal, Kolkata and Chennai having jurisdiction over specific geographical areas.
The NGT has a chairperson, who is a retired Judge of the Supreme Court appointed by the Central Government and judicial and expert members. Besides, expert members are required to have a minimum of 15 years experience in the field of environment, forest conservation and related subjects. Though the NGT is supposed to function with a minimum of 10 members and a maximum of 20 members who will serve a five-year term, the number has been changing over the years. According to latest reports, it has only six members and a chairperson, retired justice Adarsh Kumar Goel.
Quick facts
- Over 400 cases were heard by the NGT via video conferencing till June-end during the lockdown period.
- The tribunal on its own passed several directives on COVID-19 waste management, as its improper handling poses a grave threat to the health of the environment and the people.
- It also dealt with matters relating to solid waste management and rejuvenation of water bodies such as the Ganga and the Yamuna.