SRINAGAR: In response to the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) directive, the Jammu and Kashmir administration has approved a fund of Rs 32 crore for the restoration of Doodh Ganga and Mamath Kull streams in Kashmir, reports appearing in media said.
The NGT had earlier criticised the administration for “serious lapses” in waste management and failure to control illegal mining, resulting in environmental damage and posing risks to public health. Consequently, the NGT mandated the administration to pay a compensation of Rs 35 crore.
The NGT emphasised that the allocated amount should be utilised for environmental restoration, specifically addressing issues such as preventing the unscientific discharge of sewage into drains and enhancing water quality. Activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat had filed the application prompting the NGT’s intervention.
In a recent filing to the tribunal, the State’s Counsel confirmed the approval of the action plan in accordance with the NGT’s directions. The sanctioned amount of Rs 32 crore includes Rs 28.93 crore for a Sewerage Treatment Plant designed to handle daily dry weather flow discharging into Doodh Ganga Nallah. Additionally, Rs 3.07 crore stands earmarked for the beautification and restoration of the aesthetic view of Mamath Kull and Doodh Ganga in Budgam district.
The NGT has instructed the state’s counsel to provide details on whether the sanctioned amount has been released, directing the submission of a fresh report by February 7, 2024. The report should include the action plan’s copy and specifics on the amount released for the designated purposes. The NGT aims to ensure transparency and monitor the current status of the restoration efforts at least one week before the next scheduled hearing.
