Directing the Central Government to reply within a week to the writ petition filed by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) seeking modification in National Green Tribunal (NGT)'s March 16 order banning loading/unloading in "densely-populated" markets during the day time, the NGT listed the matter for hearing on June 15. A bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar also directed the CAIT to come up with a comprehensive list of suggestions to deal with the issue of pollution in a way that the environment as well as the rights of people associated with the industry are protected.
During arguments with the CAIT's counsel Advocate Shilpi Jain, the green panel asked why a modification should be made to the earlier order. Appearing for CAIT, Supreme Court lawyer Shilpi Jain said a blanket ban on loading/unloading during the day time not only renders jobless people directly associated with the trade, but also those who drive light vehicles running on CNG.
The petition filed by the CAIT had argued that such a blanket ban would also infringe the constitutional right of many whose livelihood is dependent on the trade. It had also argued that loading and unloading of goods only during night would result in disruption in the family life of not only traders but also their employees, and will adversely affect their health and mental state.
While the counsel appearing for the Central Government argued that since the larger matter on pollution is listed for July 13, this matter may also be listed on the same date. However, taking view of Jain's argument that the ban is causing serious troubles to the people associated with the industry, the bench decided to list the matter for next week. In its March 16 order, NGT had directed that in all the markets, particularly lajpat Nagar, Karol Bagh, South Extension, Chandani Chowk and other densely polluted markets, the loading and unloading would not be allowed from 11 am to 8 pm.