Order of the National Green Tribunal regarding dumping of treated water into drains by NOIDA Authority, 06/02/2025
Order of the National Green Tribunal in the matter of News Item titled "Noida authority dumping treated water into drains alleges activist" appearing in the Hindustan Times dated 11.06.2024.
In the original application, registered suo-moto, Tribunal is examining the allegation of discharge of treated water from the STP by New Okhla Industrial Development Authority (NOIDA) in the drain instead of utilising it for irrigation and other purposes.
The reply filed by NOIDA Authority, October 15, 2024 stated that presently NOIDA is generating 260 MLD of treated water from STPs, out of which it is using only 68 MLD of treated water and is discharging 192 MLD of treated water in drains. The court was also informed that laying of pipelines for connecting the STPs was in the advance stage and the same was likely to be completed by December, 2024.
However, the court was informed by the counsel for NOIDA that the work was not yet complete and that the counsel was not in a position to disclose as to how much progress in the work for laying of pipeline has been made and what percentage of work remains to be completed. STP treated water has its own value since it can be utilized in different projects, which can help in saving natural water, the court noted.
The NGT, February 6, 2025 directed NOIDA to ensure 100% utilization of STP treated water. The NOIDA Authority was also directed to place on record the comprehensive plan along with the timeline for 100% utilisation of STP treated water.