NGT initiates probe into encroachment of Dalma eco-sensitive zone and Swarnrekha River

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, Jan 28: Prashant Kumar, the Secretary of the Water Resources Department, arrived in Jamshedpur to spearhead an investigation into the reported encroachments on the banks of the Subarnarekha river. The inquiry also extended to the Dalma Forest Sanctuary area’s eco-sensitive zone, with Kumar gathering information about ongoing activities in the region.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had constituted a committee to address complaints regarding illegal encroachments along the riverbanks and unauthorized activities within the Dalma Eco Sensitive Zone. The committee comprises the Secretary of the Water Resources Department, the Deputy Commissioner of Jamshedpur, and representatives from the Central and State Pollution Control Board, as well as the Ministry of Forest and Environment.

Secretary Prashant Kumar commenced the investigation with a meeting at Bistupur Parishad, where he gathered detailed information about the department’s ongoing initiatives. Subsequently, he visited various areas to assess the situation. He revealed that the riverbanks had previously been surveyed by the Circle Officer, and the eco-sensitive zone in the Dalma Forest Sanctuary area had undergone assessment by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO). Kumar’s visit aimed to verify these surveys and compile a comprehensive report, which will be submitted to the National Green Tribunal.