Role of National Green Tribunal in Environment Protection
Role of National Green Tribunal (NGT) in Environment Protection
1. Introduction to NGT
The National Green Tribunal was established in 2010 under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010.
It is a specialized judicial body dedicated exclusively to handling environmental disputes involving:
Water pollution
Air pollution
Forest and biodiversity conservation
Waste management
Other environmental laws
2. Objectives of NGT
Provide speedy justice in environmental matters.
Reduce burden on traditional courts by handling technical and complex environmental cases.
Ensure effective enforcement of environmental laws.
Promote sustainable development by balancing ecological and developmental needs.
3. Key Powers and Functions
| Power/Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Adjudication of Environmental Disputes | Hear cases related to the environment and forest conservation. |
| Granting Relief and Compensation | Award compensation for environmental damage and order restitution. |
| Issue Directions and Orders | Direct government agencies and polluters to comply with laws and remediation. |
| Appellate Jurisdiction | Hear appeals against orders from Pollution Control Boards. |
| Preventive Measures | Can pass interim orders to stop ongoing environmental harm. |
| Expertise | Comprises judicial and expert members for technical insights. |
4. Significant Contributions
Swift Disposal: Cases are disposed of faster compared to regular courts.
Public Interest Litigation (PIL): Encourages and facilitates PILs for environmental protection.
Accountability: Holds industries and government bodies accountable for environmental violations.
Pollution Control: Orders closure or regulation of polluting industries.
Restoration: Mandates environmental restoration and compensates affected communities.
5. Landmark Judgments by NGT
Ordering closure of industries violating pollution norms.
Directing cleanup of polluted rivers and lakes.
Banning use of certain hazardous substances.
Imposing fines and penalties on offenders under the “Polluter Pays” principle.
6. Challenges Faced
Limited manpower and infrastructure to handle the volume of cases.
Enforcement of orders sometimes faces resistance.
Jurisdictional overlap with other courts and authorities.
Need for greater awareness and accessibility to common citizens.
7. Conclusion
The National Green Tribunal plays a crucial role in India’s environmental governance by providing a specialized, efficient, and expert forum to enforce environmental laws and ensure justice in environmental matters. It strengthens environmental protection through judicial innovation, balancing development with sustainability.
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