Pune: NGT Orders Swift Action On Forest Conservation In Mohammedwadi Following Citizen Complaint
Pune: NGT Orders Swift Action On Forest Conservation In Mohammedwadi Following Citizen Complaint
Pune, January 28, 2025 – The National Green Tribunal (NGT) Western Zone Bench in Pune has issued directives to expedite soil and water conservation measures in the forest area of Mohammedwadi. The order follows a complaint by Jaymala Dhankikar, a resident of NIBM Annex, highlighting environmental degradation and the urgent need for intervention.
Key Issues Highlighted
- Forest Area Neglect: The complaint cited forest destruction and soil erosion as critical issues affecting nearby residential areas and roads in Mohammedwadi.
- Soil Erosion and Groundwater Challenges: Rainwater runoff during monsoons has led to significant soil displacement, resulting in mud accumulation and reduced groundwater recharge. The complainant urged authorities to implement conservation efforts under the “Paani Adva Paani Jirva” scheme.
- Damaged Boundary Wall: The forest department acknowledged that the hill slope’s boundary wall was damaged due to rainwater, exacerbating soil erosion. Reconstruction efforts are reportedly underway.
- Budget Proposal: The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) submitted a budget proposal for soil and water conservation work for the 2024-25 fiscal year.
Tribunal’s Observations and Directives
During the hearing on January 27, 2025, the NGT reviewed submissions from the PCCF and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). It expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of transparency in affidavits filed by the PCCF and warned against future attempts to obscure information.
The tribunal instructed the Forest Department to:
- Complete all conservation measures before the upcoming monsoon season.
- Address the complainant’s concerns in a comprehensive manner.
Lack of Representation
The NGT noted with concern that no representative from the Pune District Magistrate’s office appeared during the hearing or submitted a reply affidavit. This lack of participation was flagged as a failure of governance in addressing environmental issues affecting public welfare.
Citizen’s Perspective
Social worker Jaymala Dhankikar remarked “The Supreme Court-appointed Central Empowered Committee (CEC) report in 2007 reflected the same neglect we see in the NIBM-Kondhwa forest area today. This decision by the NGT is a vital step toward reclaiming our forests and restoring ecological balance. We urge the Forest Department to honor the tribunal’s directives and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.”
Hope for Restoration
The NGT’s decision has reignited hope among residents for meaningful action to conserve the Mohammedwadi forest area. The focus now shifts to whether authorities will meet the tribunal’s directives and deliver on promises long overdue.
