NGT Issues Notices on Petition Alleging Lack of Protective Measures at Gangotri NH

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has issued notices to relevant authorities, including the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL), based on a petition highlighting the absence of certain protective measures on the Gangotri National Highway in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand.

The petition asserts that NHIDCL has not taken necessary action for the construction of a landslide protection gallery, slope protection work, and river protection work. The NGT bench, comprising Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and expert member A Senthil Vel, acknowledged the petitioner’s counsel reference to a communication from an NHIDCL official in Uttarkashi emphasizing the need for these constructions, including a cattle fence at Barethi village.

The bench further noted communications from the district magistrate (DM) of Uttarkashi recognizing the necessity for such works and the formation of a committee for the purpose. The Gangotri National Highway reportedly faces threats during monsoon due to rising Ganga Bhagirathi river levels, causing land subsidence and landslide activities at Chinyalisaur, Matli, and Badethi Chungi.

Observing the substantial environmental law compliance issue, the bench issued notices to respondents, including the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, NHIDCL, and the Uttarakhand government. The NGT directed the DM of Uttarkashi to conduct a spot inspection, submit a report on the status and need for protective constructions, and detail NHIDCL’s actions in this regard.

The DM is asked to submit the report within eight weeks, and the matter is listed for further proceedings on January 23. The plea was filed by the petitioner through Advocate Gaurav Bansal.