HINDON RIVER

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Picture Courtesy: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/water/unravelling-hindon-s-pollution-and-pursuit-of-sustainable-solutions-90536

Context: The National Green Tribunal has directed the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board to submit a detailed report on Hindon River pollution and actions against municipal bodies within two weeks.

About Hindon River

• The Hindon River originates from the Shakumbhari Devi Range in the Upper Sivalik Hills of the Saharanpur district in Uttar Pradesh.
• It flows for about 400 kilometres through the districts of Muzaffarnagar, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddh Nagar before joining the Yamuna River at Noida.
• The Kali River is a major tributary of the Hindon, originating in the Rajaji Range of the Sivalik Hills. It merges with the Hindon near Sardhana.

Cultural Significance

• Near Sardhana, there is an ancient Mahadev Temple believed to date back to the Mahabharata period. According to mythology, this was where the Pandavas prayed before starting their journey to the Lakshagrih (palace of lac) built by Duryodhana. The temple is located at the confluence of the Hindon and Kali (Krishna) rivers. 

Historical Importance

• Indus Valley Civilization Site: Alamgirpur, an ancient archaeological site from the Indus Valley Civilization (3300–1300 BCE), is situated along the banks of the Hindon River. This site provides insights into the ancient settlements and cultures that developed along the river.
• Mutiny (1857–58): During the Rebellion of 1857 (also known as the First War of Independence), the Hindon River witnessed a significant battle between Indian soldiers of the Bengal Army and British forces. Notable battles like the Battle of Badli-ki-Serai took place along the riverbanks.

Environmental Concerns

• The Hindon River and its tributaries, including the Kali River, are highly polluted due to industrial and domestic waste discharged into the river. This pollution adversely affects the river's ecosystem, water quality, and surrounding communities.

National Green Tribunal (NGT)

• The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is a statutory body established under the National Green Tribunal Act of 2010, to address environmental issues promptly and ensure the swift implementation of decisions concerning environmental protection.
• It has a specific mandate to resolve applications and petitions within six months, emphasising the expeditious disposal of environmental cases.
• The NGT is composed of judicial and expert members.
  • The chairperson must be a retired Supreme Court judge, and judicial members are former high court judges.
  • Expert members possess qualifications and experience in fields related to forest conservation, environment, and allied areas. The tribunal operates with benches in various locations across India.
• The NGT exercises powers granted under the National Green Tribunal Act to hear civil cases related to environmental issues governed by:
  • The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
  • The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Cess Act, 1977
  • The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980
  • The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981
  • The Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
  • The Public Liability Insurance Act, 1991
  • The Biological Diversity Act, 2002
• Certain matters falling under state laws or laws like the Indian Forest Act, 1927, are outside its jurisdiction.
• It operates based on principles of natural justice, deviating from strict civil procedure rules and the Indian Evidence Act. This flexibility enables conservation groups and individuals to present environmental concerns more effectively.
• Decisions of the NGT can be reviewed. If dissatisfied, parties can challenge the tribunal's orders in the Supreme Court within ninety days.

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NATIONAL GREEN TRIBUNAL (NGT) 

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PRACTICE QUESTION Q. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has been lauded for its quick and decisive actions on environmental issues. However, critics argue that these actions can sometimes hinder economic development projects.  In the context of achieving a balance between environmental protection and economic growth, critically evaluate the role of the NGT.

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