The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board (UPPCB) to submit a list of slaughterhouses within two weeks in Uttar Pradesh, discharging untreated effluents in the Ganga, the Yamuna and their tributaries.
Further, it has also asked Central Groundwater Authority to file an affidavit stating how many slaughterhouses have obtained permission for extraction of groundwater.
The Bench headed by NGT Chairperson directed UPPCB to provide details on the total number of slaughter houses in the State. They have sought further details on the number of abattoirs closed down and how many were functional and whether or not they have the requisite approval of the state pollution board. The matter has been listed for next hearing on April 27.
The green panel has further directed all the Commissioners, Chief Executive Officers and the senior most Officers of the all the corporations, and nigams to provide assistance to UPPCB in relation to filing of the affidavit, related to the provision of details of slaughter houses.
It also directed UPPCB to give a list of slaughter houses who have obtained permission of Health Department, municipal corporation or Nagar Nigam for carrying on such activity.
The NGT was hearing a plea filed by environment activist Shailesh Singh who had moved the green court against unauthorized operation of slaughterhouses in Aligarh, Bulandshahr, Sambhal and Ghaziabad districts of Uttar Pradesh.