2877 cases of environmental violations have been recorded in India during the last three years. Seven of them were in Jammu and Kashmir, according to the information furnished in the parliament, presently in its monsoon session.
The Central Government claimed to have taken several steps to monitor and control the environmental violations in the country. Among others, it counted that nineteen Integrated Regional Offices (IROs) have been set up across different parts of the country with a mandate for inspection of the developmental projects, reporting of major and minor environmental non-compliance and seeking Action Taken Report (ATR). These IROs have also been authorized and delegated powers under Section 19 of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986(EPA 1986) to take appropriate action against violators, it said.
Pertinently, on the basis of site inspection reports received from the IROs, concerned Ministry (MoEF&CC) may issue Show Cause notice, and if required, final directions with or without closure of the Unit under Section 5 of EPA, 1986.
MoEF&CC may also take action under Section 15 and Section 19 of the EPA 1986. In addition, State Environment Impact Assessment Authorities (SEIAAs) have been delegated power under EPA, 1986 to issue show cause notice and to issue direction keeping such environmental clearance (EC) in abeyance or withdrawing them, to project proponent in case of violation of the conditions of the EC issued by the authorities to project and activities within their jurisdiction, the government said.
Importantly also, State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) are authorized and delegated powers under Environment Protection Act (EPA), 1986; Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act; 1981; and Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 to take appropriate action against violators. As is clear, the government has given enough powers to the authorities concerned. However action as warranted by the situation is missing on the ground. In such a scenario, the government must act with promptitude to ensure violators are dealt with sternly and that too within a reasonable dispatch. There is need to balance the environment and ecological integrity against industrial demands on the forest resources and other ecologically fragile properties. It is also heartening to note that J&K administration has underlined that Protection and conservation of natural resources and striking a perfect balance between nature and development was its top most priority.
J&K is blessed with nature’s rich resources, with 54% of the area under green cover. A large population of J&K is dependent on forests for their livelihood. As such dedicated efforts are needed to safeguard these interests.
