BMC fined Rs 28.20 crore for discharging untreated sewage in sea and creeks

This picture has been used for representational purpose

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has been fined Rs 28.20 crore by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) for discharging untreated sewage in the sea and creeks.

NGT was hearing the petition filed by NGO Vanshakti seeking direction on compliance with sewage treatment norms and gave its order on November 22. The civic body has been asked to pay the penalty of Rs 28.20 crore as environmental damage to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) within three months.

According to the Indian Express report, "The amount may be spent on restoration of the environment by making a restoration plan to be approved and monitored by the CPCB. The CPCB may decide on the plan submitted within one month of such submission," states the order.

Earlier, BMC had approached Supreme Court and got relief, but the apex court had allowed NGT's proceedings against the civic body regarding sea pollution. Stalin D, a member of NGO Vanashakti, said, "MCGM penalised by a full five-judge bench for polluting mangroves, creeks and sea. Vanashakti filed the execution application, and NGT ruled in favour of us."

Also Read: BMC teams set to check wedding halls