NGT asks Delhi government to check pollution due to weddings

NEW DELHI: National Green Tribunal has rapped the Delhi government over delay in devising strategy for better implementation of pollution control laws and directed it to convene a meeting in this regard within two weeks after a plea drew attention to violation of rules during weddings.

Noting that bursting of crackers, use of diesel generators and loudspeakers were the main sources of air and noise pollution, the green panel asked Delhi government to strictly enforce the laws on pollution in the capital.

The green bench was hearing a plea by Delhi resident Ved Pal who said that wedding processions in Delhi-NCR violate the laws on noise pollution that restrict any loud music system without prior permission from the authorities.

"It is made clear that the meeting of the Sub-Divisional Magistrates shall be convened within two weeks and the applicant (Pal) shall be invited and his suggestions shall also be considered in the meeting," a bench headed by Justice M S Nambiar said.

On February 1, the tribunal had ordered the government to call a meeting of all Sub-Divisional Magistrates in this regard. "It is not in dispute that standards for controlling air and noise pollution are in place. Question is only of implementation."

However, when the matter came up for hearing, the Delhi government told the tribunal that the meeting on the issue could not be convened and sought more time.

The matter is now listed for next hearing on April 27.