Bhubaneswar, Oct 26: In a recent development, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has granted its approval for the water supply project initiated by the Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO) on the picturesque Sikharchandi Hills in Bhubaneswar.

The project had been temporarily suspended by the tribunal due to concerns raised by Sachin Mohapatra, a resident of Daruthenga village. Mohapatra had brought to the NGT's attention that trees were being felled and substantial boulders were being removed from the Sikharchandi Hills without the necessary permits from the forest department and other relevant authorities.

In response to Mohapatra's petition, the NGT issued its ruling on October 20, allowing WATCO to proceed with the construction work. However, the NGT stipulated that the elevated water storage tank project should strictly adhere to the originally proposed land area of three acres, as outlined in the report submitted by the joint inspection committee on July 3.

The NGT order stated, "Although IDCO has allocated four acres of land for WATCO to construct the water tank, it is evident from the joint committee's findings that three acres can be utilized as per the layout plan. We instruct WATCO not to exceed the designated three-acre area in any manner."

The joint inspection committee meticulously examined the construction site, engaged in dialogues with local stakeholders, the divisional forest officer of Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary, and representatives from various concerned parties. After a thorough review, the NGT concluded that the Sikharchandi Hills' territory does not fall within any officially designated forest land, and the hills are situated outside the eco-sensitive zone of the Chandaka Sanctuary. Furthermore, since the total construction area measures 12,140.6 square meters, no additional environmental clearance is deemed necessary.

This decision by the NGT paves the way for the WATCO water supply project atop the Sikharchandi Hills, under specific conditions designed to protect the environment and the surrounding area.

Powered by Froala Editor