December 13th 2024.
In Bhubaneswar, the National Green Tribunal has recently issued a directive to the Odisha Space Applications Centre and the deputy director of mines in Jajpur to conduct a thorough investigation into the stone quarrying activities at the Rahadpur cluster in Jajpur district. This directive was given during a hearing by the Eastern Zone Bench of the tribunal in response to a plea filed by Babuli Jena, represented by advocates Sankar Prasad Pani and Asutosh Padhy.
The NGT has assigned the director of mines in Jajpur to carefully examine various aspects of the quarrying operations, with the assistance of ORSAC. These aspects include the amount of minor minerals excavated, any mining activities that may have occurred beyond the designated lease area, instances of excessive mining, and the proximity of the quarry sites to minor irrigation projects in the surrounding area. The petitioner, Babuli Jena, had expressed concerns about potential violations of environmental norms and regulations in the Rahadpur cluster. It was alleged that the quarrying activities had disregarded the siting criteria set by the Odisha State Pollution Control Board, as well as the conditions outlined in the environmental clearance. One of the main concerns raised by the petitioner was the impact of the quarrying on the Ranibanda and Paikarapur minor irrigation projects, which are located near the quarrying site.
The NGT's directive requires a fresh inquiry into the matter, with a thorough examination of all relevant details. This decision was made in response to the petitioner's concerns and allegations, and it reflects the tribunal's commitment to upholding environmental regulations and protecting the interests of local communities. The director of mines in Jajpur, with the support of ORSAC, will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive investigation and providing a detailed report to the tribunal. This decision serves as a reminder that all industries, including quarrying, must adhere to environmental norms and regulations to ensure the well-being of both the environment and the local community.
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