NGT Initiates Suo Motu Action Against Sonadubbi River Encroachment and Pollution
The principal bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken suo motu cognisance of grave allegations concerning the encroachment and pollution of the Sonadubbi River in Ranchi district, Jharkhand. This proactive step underscores the Tribunal's commitment to addressing environmental violations that threaten vital water resources.
Case Details and Jurisdictional Transfer
The case, registered as Original Application (OA-46/2026), Manoj Kumar vs State of Jharkhand and others, originated from a complaint filed by RTI activist Manoj Kumar on July 17 last year via the Public Grievances Portal. During a hearing on February 5, the bench, comprising Judicial Member Justice Arun Kumar Tyagi and Expert Member Afroz Ahmad, noted that the cause of action occurred within Jharkhand's territorial jurisdiction. Consequently, the Tribunal directed the Registry to list the matter before the Eastern Zone Bench of the NGT at Kolkata on February 25 for further proceedings.
Allegations of Illegal Activities
During the hearing, the complainant appeared through video conferencing and presented serious accusations against M/s Monet Daniel Coal Washery Private Limited (MDCWL). It was alleged that the company, through its General Manager and Chairman, illegally encroached upon the Sonadubbi River by erecting 12 pillars within the riverbed and discharging chemical-laden coal waste into the water. The Sonadubbi River, a tributary of the Damodar River, serves as a crucial water source for thousands of villagers across three to four villages in the Khalari area.
Failed Enforcement and Legal Complications
Despite orders from local authorities, the encroachments persist. The Circle Officer, Khalari, issued a notice on October 21, 2022, directing the General Manager of MDCWL to demolish and remove the illegal pillars. However, no action was taken. Later, the Deputy Commissioner-cum-District Magistrate of Ranchi issued a letter numbered 810 on June 12, 2023, ordering the removal of encroachments, but within two months, he stayed his own order, leading to continued degradation of the river.
Parallel High Court Proceedings
In a related development, the Jharkhand High Court has also taken suo motu cognisance of the matter, registering a Public Interest Litigation (PIL 5787 of 2026) on January 5. A Division bench, led by Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad, directed the Deputy Commissioner of Ranchi to expedite the decision in Encroachment Appeal Case No 40R15/23-24 by March 31 and submit a report. The High Court noted that the Circle Officer's order for removal on July 12, 2023, was challenged by the washery company, resulting in a stay by the Deputy Commissioner on September 29, 2023.
Next Steps and Tribunal Directives
The NGT bench observed that while the applicant participated via video conferencing, supporting documents were not formally placed on record. The Tribunal has instructed the Registry to verify if the materials were received via email and to ensure they are properly documented. With the jurisdictional transfer to the Eastern Zone Bench in Kolkata, the case is set for a hearing on February 25, aiming to address the environmental and legal complexities surrounding this critical issue.
