NGT directs TNPCB to act on untreated sewage discharge into Gulf of Mannar

National Green Tribunal orders TNPCB to stop sewage discharge into Gulf of Mannar, emphasizing urgent action for environmental protection.

The Southern Bench of the National Green Tribunal has instructed the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) to take urgent action against the release of untreated sewage into the Gulf of Mannar.

Hearing a suo motu case on the issue of sewage discharge off the Ramanathapuram coast, Justice Pushpa Sathyanarayana on Monday referred to TNPCB’s report that stated that the Keelakarai municipality generates 3.25 mld of sewage.Its fecal sludge treatment plant has a capacity of only 18 kld, and its Consent to Establish was valid until 31 March 2024, the report said.

The TNPCB also reported that, following recommendations from the District Environmental Engineer, a notice was issued to the Commissioner of the Keelakarai municipality to take necessary steps to establish a new sewage treatment plant.

However, the Bench raised concern over the lack of further action since the notice was issued two months ago, and stressed the importance of protecting the eco-sensitive and biodiverse coast of the Gulf of Mannar.

The counsel for the Environment Department requested additional time to submit reports.

The Bench further directed the TNPCB to take immediate action to prevent the discharge of untreated sewage into the sea.