Dumping waste in Yamuna near Taj Mahal sad state of affairs: NGT

New Delhi: The National Green Tribunal today expressed disgust at the dumping of solid wastes in river Yamuna near the Taj Mahal, saying it demonstrated a sad state of affairs and directed UP government and its authorities to get it all cleaned immediately.

"Go to Agra and get things cleaned. This is a limit. This is shocking. We are disgusted. Principal solid waste being dumped at drains near Taj demonstrates sad state of affairs.

"All of you should be fined atleast Rs one lakh. List on Thursday for further directions, It is unfortunate that it is happening and what we see is a fact," a bench headed by NGT Chairperson Swatanter Kumar said.

The bench made the remarks while reprimanding the UP government, Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB), Agra Development Authority (ADA) and Agra Nagar Nigam (ANN) for not ensuring cleanliness and proper disposal of untreated sewage in the river.

The tribunal asked the authorities and over 25 builders, who were earlier restrained from carrying out any construction activity near Yamuna river in Agra, to file their replies while posting the matter for hearing on December 9.

The bench was hearing a petition seeking removal of structures which were allegedly constructed without obtaining environment clearances and disposal of sewage and debris dicharged in the Yamuna.

Some of the builders during the hearing submitted that they were not informed by the ADA about the need to get environment clearance (EC).

"Untreated drains have already been closed and builders have been restrained from constructing anything near Yamuna in compliance with the tribunal's earlier order," a counsel appearing for the builders, submitted.

Earlier, the tribunal had issued bailable warrants against seven residential colonies in Agra for releasing untreated sewage into Yamuna and failure of their representatives to appear before it.