NGT prohibits use of hot-mix plants in Delhi-NCR

Citing health hazards posed by hot-mix plants running along the roadside, the National Green Tribunal today prohibited use of such plants which are being operated without proper environmental protection.
Hot mix plants are self-contained bitumen and aggregate mixing plants which are extremely compact in size.
"Any state government, government instrumentality, local authorities or any person is hereby prohibited from using hot mix plants in any part of NCR-Delhi," a bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar said.
"If any person is found using the hot mix plants, we direct Delhi Pollution Control Committee, Central Pollution Control Board to seize such machine immediately which is being operated without ensuring full environmental protection. The police shall duly assist the team in the process," it said.

The directions came on the affidavit filed by Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) which had stated that National Highway Authority of India (NHAI), Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) and Public Works Department are carrying out projects which are causing huge damage to environment on Delhi-Faridabad (Mathura) road.
During the hearing, the green panel also slammed Delhi Metro for creating chaos on the roads leading to vehicular emissions.

"Every station of your's is a muck. See the mess DMRC has created from Munirka to Vasant Kunj in laying of underground cables," the bench said.
However, the counsel for DMRC said that they were taking all requisite steps to minimise the problem caused to people on the roads.

Taking note of the traffic chaos and pollution caused by construction activities of NHAI, DMRC and PWD, the tribunal had earlier issued notices to them asking why "punitive action" should not be initiated against their senior most officials.