New Delhi: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has pulled up the Uttar Pradesh government for failing to furnish complete and specific data regarding the discharge of untreated sewage into the River Ganga.
In a hearing on Thursday, the Tribunal expressed dissatisfaction with the state’s latest affidavit, calling it incomplete and lacking accountability.
The case, M.C. Mehta vs. Union of India & Ors. (O.A. No. 200/2014), relates to the ongoing efforts to control pollution in the Ganga.
The Tribunal had earlier directed the State to submit detailed, district-wise information on sewage-carrying drains—both tapped and untapped—along with timelines for their diversion to functional sewage treatment plants (STPs).
Despite assurances, the affidavit filed by the Secretary, Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of Uttar Pradesh, on April 30, 2025, failed to include key data such as:
-Names and flow details of drains discharging into the Ganga and its tributaries,
-Whether drains are tapped or untapped,
-Quantities of sewage diverted to STPs,
-Specific deadlines (with day, month, and year) for completion of tapping work,
-Designated officers accountable for execution in each district.
The Tribunal noted that critical districts—including Sonbhadra, Mau, Bhadohi, Jaunpur, Azamgarh, Gorakhpur, Deoria, Kushinagar, Maharajganj, and Prayagraj were inadequately covered in the submission.
Representing the State, the Additional Advocate General acknowledged the delay, citing lack of timely input from district-level authorities. A high-level review meeting was held on April 30 to address the gaps.
Granting a final opportunity, the Tribunal directed the State to file a comprehensive affidavit within two weeks, ensuring full compliance with its earlier orders.
“The affidavit must specify timelines for each drain and name the officer accountable for completing the work,” the bench stated.
The matter is next listed for hearing on May 29, 2025.
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