Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: TOI
Context: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) central bench has issued a ban on the operation of cruise boats in the Upper Lake (Bhoj Wetland) and other wetland sites in Madhya Pradesh
- Additionally, the NGT has prohibited any construction within the “no development zone” or “buffer zone” as defined in the Wetland Rules of 2017.
Reasons for ban:
- They operate as part of the travel, entertainment, or leisure industry and are run for profit.
- These vessels have the potential to discharge sewage and trade effluents into the water.
- The proximity of the cruise’s path to Van Vihar National Park, which falls under a “silent zone,” yet noise pollution was observed.
About National Green Tribunal:
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) is a specialized judicial body in India established to handle cases related to environmental protection and conservation. It is established under the National Green Tribunal Act, of 2010.
The primary objective of the NGT is to provide effective and expeditious solutions to environmental disputes and violations.
About the Bhoj Wetland
It is located in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, and earned its Ramsar site designation in 2002. It encompasses two man-made reservoirs, the Upper Lake (Bhojtal) and the Lower Lake.
