Environmental Compensation Pursuit Intensifies in Himachal Pradesh

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has intensified its efforts to recover Rs 79 lakh in environmental compensation from illegal mining activities in Himachal Pradesh. Officials, including those from the Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board (HPPCB), have been summoned for details by the next hearing scheduled for October 10, 2025.

The tribunal has issued notices to several state officials, seeking clarifications on recovery actions related to the fines imposed for violations. A three-member NGT bench has mandated that responses should be submitted at least a week before the scheduled hearing.

This case stems from a suo moto action by the NGT following a news report about illegal mining activities in the region. The HPPCB had identified violations but reportedly failed to recover the compensation effectively, prompting further scrutiny by the tribunal.

(With inputs from agencies.)