The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken suo motu cognizance of a news article reporting the death of four endangered crocodiles in a Rajasthan river, with experts suspecting pollution as the cause.
The tribunal considered the matter serious, as it involves the death of an endangered species listed under Schedule 1(c) of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
In 2022, 50 crocodiles died due to industrial waste pollution in the Chandraloi River, Kota, Rajasthan.
The recent deaths of four crocodiles, approximately 6-7 feet long, were reported just six days prior to the publication of the news article.
The Principal Bench comprising Justice Sudhir Agarwal , Judicial Member, and Dr. A. Senthil Vel, Expert Member has constituted a joint committee comprising the Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board, the Central Pollution Control Board, the Chief Wildlife Warden of Rajasthan, and a nominee of the Wildlife Institute of India to investigate the matter.
The committee has been directed to examine the factual correctness of the information, determine the reasons for the crocodiles’ deaths, and submit a report within two months.
The Central Pollution Control Board will serve as the nodal authority for coordination and compliance.
The NGT has listed the matter for further hearing on February 25, 2025.
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