NGT cracks the whip to prevent ecological damage to TN's Western Ghat
The National Green Tribunal, Southern Zone has directed the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board to pass appropriate orders in a matter related to unauthorised brick kilns exploiting the Western Ghat region leading to ecological damage.
On its own, the tribunal had initiated action on the issue.
Since there was no provision to regulate the activities of such units and to prevent ecological damage, the NGT-SZ had taken congnizance based on a Tamil daily's reportage on April 14, 2021.
Subsequently, proceedings were initiated by the state Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) as well as the mining authorities.
Following a hearing on the matter, in its order on Tuesday, the tribunal referred to the Board's report on determination of compensation.
Environmental compensation was fixed for the brick kiln units in five specific villages as per a Central Pollution Control Board formula.
It was to recover compensation for the damages caused to the environment by the brick kiln units under the "Pol