Aafrin Kidwai 
The West Bengal government has been fined Rs 3,500 crore by the National Green Tribunal for a large disparity in solid and liquid waste generation and treatment.
The green panel stated that the state government does not appear to prioritize the establishment of sewage and solid waste management facilities, despite the fact that the state budget for 2022-2023 includes a provision of Rs 12,818.99 crore for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs.
Observing that health issues cannot be postponed indefinitely, a bench led by NGT Chairperson Justice A K Goel said that it is the constitutional responsibility of the state and municipal governments to maintain a pollution-free environment.
“The final amount of compensation under the two sections (solid and liquid waste) is estimated to be Rs. 3,500 crore, which the state of West Bengal may deposit in a separate ring-fenced account within two months,” the court said. “If the violations continue, it may be necessary to consider extra compensation,” it added, reports Business Standard.
