Mumbai, a bustling metropolis, often serves as a benchmark for urban living in India. However, the pressing issues of environmental safety and urban planning are paramount, as seen in a recent case involving the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the residents of Gurugram. The NGT's Principal Bench in New Delhi has taken a significant step by issuing notices to the State of Haryana and relevant authorities following a plea from the National Media Centre Co-operative House Building Society Ltd.. This society has vehemently opposed the installation of 24 high-capacity diesel generator (DG) sets, amounting to a staggering 67,500 KVA, along with an accompanying cooling tower, in proximity to their residential complex.
During the hearings, the Bench, led by Justice Prakash Shrivastava and Expert Member A. Senthil Vel, heard arguments that highlighted crucial concerns. The society's representatives pointed out that these installations are alarmingly close to essential community facilities, including a pre-primary school and a day-care center. Senior Advocate Sanjay Upadhyay, representing the residents, emphasized that the proposed DG sets violate specific conditions outlined in the Environmental Clearance (EC) granted in 2019, as well as in subsequent expansions. This raises significant questions regarding the adherence to environmental standards in urban development.
One of the pivotal arguments presented was that the placement of the DG sets was made without the requisite consultation with the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB), a stipulation explicitly mentioned in the clearance documents. According to an RTI response dated July 24, 2025, there was no recorded approval or location specification from the HSPCB, suggesting that the necessary procedures were not followed. Furthermore, the society indicated that the DG sets are being placed in a section of the land that does not fall within the area for which the initial EC was granted, thus raising concerns about compliance with the legal framework.
The Tribunal also took note of another critical issue raised by the applicants regarding Condition No. 18 of the EC, which prohibits construction beneath high-tension power lines. This highlights broader implications for urban planning and environmental safety, as the residents of Gurugram advocate for their rights to a safe and healthy living environment. The NGT's involvement in this matter signifies the importance of regulatory oversight in ensuring that urban developments do not come at the expense of community welfare and environmental integrity.
As this case progresses, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by urban residents in India, where rapid development often clashes with essential environmental protections. The NGT's scrutiny of this situation may pave the way for more stringent adherence to environmental laws, balancing the needs of urban development with the health and safety of residents.