Can NGT Form A Committee?

Answer:

Yes, NGT can form a joint committee or direct existing authorities to inspect the site and submit a report. In environmental cases, many facts require technical verification. A complainant may have photos and videos, but NGT often needs an official inspection to confirm the pollution source, damage level, responsible authority, and required remedial action. That is why joint committees are common in NGT matters.

A committee may include officers from the State Pollution Control Board, Central Pollution Control Board, District Magistrate office, Municipal Corporation, Forest Department, Mining Department, Jal Board, Irrigation Department, SEIAA, NMCG, or other relevant authorities. The composition depends on the issue. For illegal sand mining, the committee may include the District Magistrate, Mining Department, Police and Pollution Control Board. For sewage pollution, it may include the Municipal Corporation, Jal Board, SPCB and CPCB. For Ganga matters, NMCG may also be relevant.

The applicant can request a committee in the prayer clause. A good prayer may say: “Constitute a Joint Committee to inspect the site, identify violations, assess environmental damage, calculate environmental compensation, and submit a report before this Hon’ble Tribunal.”

The NGT Act gives the Tribunal powers to settle environmental disputes and pass orders in civil cases involving substantial environmental questions. A joint committee helps convert allegations into verified findings and makes the final direction more effective.