National Green Tribunal disposes of application following the withdrawal of controversial CRPF project in Jammu and Kashmir
In a significant development, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has disposed of an application challenging the proposed establishment of a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Battalion Camping Site in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. The decision comes after respondents announced the withdrawal of the contentious project following allegations of environmental norm violations.
The application, filed by Ghulam Mohiudidin Shah and others, raised grievances against the proposed camping site for the 61st, 79th, 117th, and 132nd Battalions of the CRPF on 1324 Kanals of land in Brain, Tehsil Khanyar, District Srinagar. The applicants alleged that the proposed site violated environmental laws, sparking concerns among local communities and environmentalists.
During the hearing, Mr. Saurabh Sharma, counsel for the applicants, highlighted potential environmental repercussions and sought the Tribunal's intervention. In response, Mr. Gigi. C. George, representing the CRPF, informed the Tribunal that the proposal had been rescinded. Instructions from Mr. Vinod Sawant, in-charge (law) for IGP Headquarters, confirmed the decision to drop the project.
The NGT, presided over by Justice Prakash Shrivastava, Chairperson, and Dr. A. Senthil Vel, Expert Member, acknowledged the withdrawal as a positive development, stating that the application no longer held ground. Consequently, the Tribunal disposed of the original application and any pending interlocutory applications.
This outcome has been welcomed by environmental activists who had voiced concerns over the potential impact on the local ecosystem. The decision underscores the importance of adhering to environmental norms in developmental projects.
Bottom Line:
Environmental Law - Grievance raised against proposed Battalion Camping Site of CRPF alleging violation of environmental norms - Proposal to set up the site dropped by respondents - Application disposed of in view of subsequent development.
Statutory provision(s): Environmental Law, National Green Tribunal Act.
