₹2.75 Crore Environmental Compensation Fixed in Pawana River Pollution Case

Pune: Environmental damage compensation of approximately ₹2.75 crore has been fixed against three industrial units and one builder in connection with pollution of the Pawana River, following an investigation by a joint committee constituted on the directions of the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

According to the information provided, the investigation identified the three industrial units and the construction entity as being responsible for pollution. A report detailing the findings and the environmental damage compensation has been submitted before the NGT.

The joint committee was constituted following directions from the tribunal and included representatives from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), Pune district administration, Pune Zilla Parishad and Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA).

During its investigation, the committee examined pollution sources and identified entities it found responsible. Environmental damage compensation was subsequently determined based on the findings.

The development has now prompted a demand for a similar investigation into pollution of the Pawana River within Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) limits.

Applicant Advocate Krunal Ghare said a request would be placed before the NGT seeking the constitution of a separate joint committee to conduct a comprehensive investigation in the PCMC area.

According to Ghare, the findings from the existing committee demonstrate the need for identifying specific pollution sources and fixing responsibility rather than limiting action to recording pollution levels. He has sought a similar mechanism for the PCMC stretch of the river.

The proposed investigation is expected to seek scrutiny of sewage discharged into the river and adjoining drains, industrial effluents, the functioning of sewage treatment plants, sewage networks and other potential sources of pollution.

The PCMC region has a significant concentration of industrial establishments, residential developments, construction projects and commercial properties. The proposed joint committee would be expected to determine which sources are contributing to pollution entering the river from this area.

If specific sources are identified within PCMC limits, the findings could form the basis for environmental damage compensation and further action under applicable environmental laws.

Ghare plans to request the NGT to apply a similar framework of investigation and accountability to pollution originating within the PCMC limits of the Pawana River.