The National Green Tribunal (NGT) warned the Uttarakhand Government on Thursday that it would be compelled to pass harsh orders if its queries on relief measures in the disaster-hit State are not answered on the date of next hearing on October 11.
The bench, headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar, warned that if the State Government is unable to bring about the steps it has taken on October 11 for welfare of the people besides restoration of ecology, environment and loss of property, the Tribunal would seek presence of the State Chief Secretary as well as other senior officers concerned.
“You tell us (on next date) what steps you have taken or we will be harsh against your State. We make it clear that if complete queries of Tribunal are not answered on next date of hearing, we would be compelled to direct presence of your Chief Secretary and concerned senior officers in the field,” the bench said.
While listing the matter for further hearing on October 11, the Tribunal noted, “We do not like to adjourn, but we are doing it for second time on your request.”
On the last date of hearing on September 9, the lawyers appearing on behalf of the State Government failed to answer the queries of the bench on the steps Uttarakhand has taken to ensure restoration of ecological balance and prevention of re-occurrence of such a disaster.