The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed Alstom Industries and the Assam government to maintain status quo in regard to operation of a cement factory that was established at Baghjap village, in Morigaon district of Assam.
The NGT has also asked the state government to show cause as to why the interim order shall not be made absolute.
The applicants appearing before the NGT contended that the factory site was closer to sites where a historic religious event is held, along with the fact that there were temples and schools in the area.
The applicants submitted before the tribunal that no action was taken although the local villagers had protested against the establishment of the cement factory.
The Principal Secretary, Department of Environment and Forests, Assam, along with the Pollution Control Board, Assam and the Deputy Commissioner, Morigaon has also been made party respondents in the case. The next hearing is on 23rd March.