NGT bins plea alleging encroachment of river

Cuttack: National Green Tribunal (NGT) has dismissed a case alleging encroachment on the Prachi river by a model bus stand at Kakatpur in Puri district. NGT’s Delhi bench after receiving a letter petition had ordered a probe to ascertain the veracity of the allegation on Feb 16 and transferred the case to its east zone bench in Kolkata.Dr Laxmidhar Biswal, a resident of Astaranga area, filed the letter petition alleging that the encroachment had caused irreparable loss to the river.The joint committee consisting of representatives of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), member secretary of OSPCB and district magistrate (Puri) conducted the inquiry and submitted the report on July 18. After perusal of the report, the bench said, “We find that there is no encroachment on Prachi river nor any adverse impact on it due to construction of the model bus stand at Kakatpur. The case lacks of merit and is accordingly dismissed.” tnn

Pollution in Buddha Dariya has increased, CPCB tells NGT

In a report to the National Green Tribunal, environmental authorities found that dyeing units significantly polluted Buddha Nullah by discharging untreated wastewater. BOD and COD levels increased alarmingly between 2022 and 2024. Three common effluent treatment plants violated discharge standards, resulting in substantial fines. Authorities aim to ensure compliance and environmental improvements.

BJP alleges TMC supporters' involvement in probe committee of Kolkata doctor rape-murder case

The BJP criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over the alleged rape and murder of a female doctor in Kolkata. They questioned the investigative committee's credibility and demanded a CBI inquiry. Nationwide protests erupted among junior doctors, calling for justice. The principal of RG Kar Medical College resigned amid the turmoil, and the main suspect, Sanjay Roy, was arrested.

Nearly half of the citys waterbodies encroached upon

In Delhi, 656 out of 1,367 waterbodies were located, with 635 having vanished due to encroachment, according to recent data. Officials have been assigned to inspect waterbodies bi-weekly to ensure their upkeep. Efforts include public participation and district-level committees for rejuvenation. However, no wetlands have yet been legally protected.