NGT Fines Thane Collector ₹1 Lakh Over Mangrove Waste Dumping

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a fine of ₹1 lakh on the District Collector of Thane for failing to comply with its earlier directions to prevent the dumping of construction and demolition (C&D) waste in mangrove areas. The order was passed on August 13 by the NGT's Western Zone Bench in an application filed by Vanshakti and another against the Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority and other authorities.

The Tribunal observed that the main responsibility for clearing the debris lay with the District Collector, Thane. However, the Collector's counsel informed the Tribunal that no one had approached from the Collector's side, and therefore, a reply could not be filed. The bench questioned this explanation and said the reply affidavit ought to have been filed.

The matter relates to several sites where solid waste and C&D waste had allegedly been dumped, including in mangrove areas. The Tribunal recalled its earlier order of January 24, 2025, which had directed the District Collector to ensure that no further dumping of C&D waste took place at one of the sites. The NGT noted that solid waste had been dumped in an “unscientific manner” in mangrove areas at several locations.

The bench noted that Kasheli and Dive-Anjur gram panchayats also fall under the jurisdiction of the District Collector and observed that the authorities could have ensured that dumping of C&D waste was stopped at the site despite the earlier directions. Instead, the Tribunal found that the authorities had neither stopped the dumping nor filed a response in the present proceedings.

The Tribunal observed that the conduct of the District Collector, Thane, was incorrigible and found the failure to comply with the earlier direction to be a violation. It consequently directed the Collector to deposit ₹1 lakh with the NGT Bar Association (Western Zone) within one week. The Collector has also been given two weeks to file a reply setting out the steps taken to prevent further dumping.

The Tribunal directed the District Collector to remain present before it on the next date, either physically or through video conference. Meanwhile, the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) submitted a site-wise action-taken report before the Tribunal. It stated that a trench had been dug at the Mumbra entry point near Sites 2 and 3 to prevent unauthorized entry of heavy dumping vehicles.

Garbage had been cleared from Site 4, while height-restriction barriers were being installed at Site 5 to prevent further illegal dumping. TMC further informed the Tribunal that garbage had been cleared from Site 8 at Sabegaon, while two height-restriction barriers had been installed at the Diva dumpsite.

The NGT's order is a significant step towards protecting the mangrove areas in Thane district from illegal waste dumping. The Tribunal's actions demonstrate its commitment to enforcing environmental regulations and holding authorities accountable for their actions. The order also highlights the need for greater awareness and cooperation among authorities to prevent environmental degradation.

The mangrove areas in Thane district are an essential part of the ecosystem, providing a habitat for various species of plants and animals. The dumping of C&D waste in these areas can have severe consequences, including the destruction of habitats and the pollution of water bodies. The NGT's order is a welcome step towards protecting these areas and ensuring that the authorities take necessary measures to prevent environmental degradation.

In conclusion, the NGT's order imposing a fine of ₹1 lakh on the District Collector of Thane is a significant step towards protecting the environment and holding authorities accountable for their actions. The order demonstrates the Tribunal's commitment to enforcing environmental regulations and highlights the need for greater awareness and cooperation among authorities to prevent environmental degradation.