Pune: The National Green Tribunal (NGT) bench has taken serious note of the petition filed against the construction of the crematorium at Ravet in the Pawana river basin area.

The NGT has directed the seven parties including the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) and the Environment Department, to file their Say within six weeks of time on the project that could cause environmental damage.

NGT Judicial Officer Shevo Kumar Singh and Expert Member Dr Satyawan Singh Garbayal have taken note of the petition and based on which they have issued a notice.

As per the petition, the work which is underway on a crematorium in the area of Pavana River in Ravet is within the flood control line of the river. It can damage the environment. No construction permission has been obtained. The Harmony Co-operative Housing Society, which is adjacent to the cemetery, has filed a petition against the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation and seven others.  A petition has filed by Saurabh Kulkarni.

The petitioning society is at a close distance from the crematorium . Other societies too have filed the petition. Smoke from the cemetery can be a nuisance to residents as well as breathing issues. There are already five cemeteries in the area. Therefore, this space should be used for the daily use and needs of the citizens rather than a cemetery place unit.

The petition further demand and appeal to NGT that instead of such cemetery such place can be utilized for construction of a garden, swimming pool or any other building for public use will benefit the citizens and other recreation activity purposes.

The next hearing will be held after the concern noticed issued parties and administrations submit their ‘Say’ along with their affidavit before the NGT.