Can Drain Discharge Go To NGT?

Answer:

Yes, drain discharge can go to NGT when the drain carries untreated sewage, industrial effluent, chemical waste, solid waste, sludge, or contaminated water into a river, pond, lake, wetland, canal, or open land. A drain may look like a local civic issue, but when it becomes a channel of pollution, it becomes an environmental issue suitable for NGT.

The applicant should explain whether the drain carries domestic sewage, industrial discharge, mixed waste, or untreated wastewater. It is also important to mention whether any STP exists, whether the drain is intercepted, whether the municipal body has failed to act, and whether pollution reaches a water body. Photos and videos showing black water, foam, sludge, open discharge, garbage, or foul smell can be useful evidence.

Authorities commonly involved include Municipal Corporation, Nagar Palika, Jal Board, Jal Nigam, State Pollution Control Board, CPCB, District Magistrate, Irrigation Department, local body, and private units discharging into the drain. If the drain joins the Ganga, NMCG may also be relevant.

NGT can order drain mapping, water testing, interception, sewage treatment, removal of illegal discharge points, environmental compensation, and compliance reports. Since Section 14 of the NGT Act covers substantial environmental questions arising from environmental laws, drain pollution can be raised where it affects water, public health, or ecology.