Varanasi S. Rajalingam (file photo).
NGT (National Green Tribunal) during hearing on encroachment and pollution of Ganga, Assi and Varuna tributaries in Varanasi, DM S. Rajalingam reprimanded. Petitioner’s lawyer Saurabh Tiwari said the NGT asked the DM: what did he do regarding cleaning of the Ganga in two years? Why don’t they put signs there saying that the water here is not suitable for bathing and drinking?
On this, Varanasi DM S. Rajalingam said that the issue of cleaning the Ganga is a governance issue. We cannot make a decision on this matter alone. About this NGT said that you should not be helpless. You have power and you use it. NGT also told the UP government lawyer that you are defending people whom you cannot defend.
DM S. Rajalingam was associated with video conferencing.
A two-member NGT bench made these harsh statements orally. Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and expert member Dr A. In front of the Senthil bench, Varanasi DM S. Rajalingam was connected through video conferencing. The next hearing in this case is now December 13.
They drain the water that falls into the Ganges in 16 cities
Expressing concern over Ganga pollution in Uttar Pradesh in its report a week ago, NGT said sewage from 16 cities on the banks of the Ganga, including Sangam city, falls directly into the Ganga through drains. Due to this the quality of water is deteriorating.
NGT submitted an affidavit before the Chief Secretary within four weeks and sought information on the government’s action plan to prevent drains from falling into the Ganga along with details of the proposed sewage treatment plant. The next hearing in this case will be on January 20, 2025 at the time of Mahakumbh.
