Mantri Techzone Private Limited v. Forward Foundation And Others

S. Abdul Nazeer, J.— These appeals have been preferred under Section 22 of the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 (for brevity “the NGT Act”) challenging the judgment and order dated 7-5-2015 2015 SCC OnLine NGT 5 and 4-5-2016 2016 SCC OnLine NGT 1409 respectively passed by the Principal Bench of the National Green Tribunal, New Delhi (for short “the Tribunal”).

2. The appellants in Civil Appeals Nos. 5016 of 2016 and 8002-03 of 2016 are Respondents 9 and 10 in Original Application No. 222 of 2014 (hereinafter referred to as “Respondents 9 and 10”). The said application was filed by Respondents 1 to 3 herein (hereinafter referred to as “the applicants”). Respondents 4 to 7 in these appeals are the State of Karnataka and other authorities. They were arrayed as Respondents 1 to 4 in the application. Respondents 12 and 13 herein were subsequently impleaded in the application (for short “the impleaded respondents”).

3. The State of Karnataka has filed Civil Appeals Nos. 4923-24 of 2017, challenging the general condition and Direction (1) contained in the order of the Tribunal dated 4-5-2016 2016 SCC OnLine NGT 1409. The other appeals have been filed by different entities, who were not parties before the Tribunal challenging the order of the Tribunal dated 4-5-2016 2016 SCC OnLine NGT 1409 insofar as it directs a buffer/green zone of 75 m in respect of lakes, 50 m in respect of primary Rajakaluves, 35 m in case of secondary Rajakaluves and 25 m in case of tertiary Rajakaluves with retrospective effect. According to them, they are adversely affected by the aforesaid condition in the impugned order.

4. The applicants filed OA No. 222 of 2014 by contending that ecologically sensitive land was allotted by the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (for short “Kiadb”) to Respondents 9 and 10 vide Notifications dated 23-4-2004 and 7-5-2004 respectively for setting up of software technology park, commercial and residential complex, hotel and multi-level car parks. The Master Plan formulated by the Bangalore Development Authority (for short “BDA”), identifies the allotted land as “residential sensitive”, though the same land was identified in the Draft Master Plan as “protected zone”. It was further contended that the revenue map in respect of properties as referred in the land lease agreements has multiple Rajakaluves (storm water drains). The development projects in question sit right on the catchment and wetland area which feeds the Rajakaluves, which in turn drains rainwater into Bellandur Lake. The project will thus encroach two Rajakaluves of 1.38 ac and 1.23 ac each.

5. The satellite digital images of the area from the year 2000 to 2012 show encroachment upon these Rajakaluves, as well as the manner in which they are covered by the construction. The State Level Expert Appraisal Committee (for short “SEAC”), which was to assist the State Level Environment Impact Assessment Authority (for short “Seiaa”), held its meetings on various dates to examine the project. It had required Appellant 9 to submit a revised NOC from the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (for short “Bwssb”) for the project in question. It was also observed that the project lies between Bellandur Lake and Agara Lake. Respondent 9 was also directed to take protective measures to spare the buffer zone around Rajakaluves and also to commit that no construction would be carried out in the buffer zone. In the meeting of 11-11-2011, it was recorded that the project proposes car parking facility for 14,438 cars in that environmentally sensitive area.

6. It was alleged that NOC was issued covering an area of 17,404 sq m whereas the built-up area, as noted by SEAC, is 13,50,454.98 sq m. Respondent 9 obtained NOC from Bwssb by concealing material facts and by misrepresenting that NOC is required only for residential units which form a very minuscule part of the total project. Respondent 9 had approached the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (for short “Kspcb”) for obtaining clearance, which was granted on 4-9-2012 subject to the fulfilment of the conditions stated in the consent order which included leaving the buffer zone all along the valley and towards the lake. It is further contended that the grant of consent by Kspcb to Respondent 9 also contained a condition with regard to obtaining environmental clearance from the competent authority and no construction was to commence until such clearance was granted.

7. The applicants further contended that Respondent 9 violated the conditions and commenced construction of the project. There was also violation of the stipulations stated in the approval of SEAC in relation to buffer zone and construction over Rajakaluves. The construction had been commenced over the ecologically sensitive area of the lake catchment area and valley, with utter disregard to the statutory compliances. Referring to these blatant irregularities, the applicant submitted that the conversion of land from “protected zone” to “residential sensitive area” is violative of the law. The project is right in the midst of a fragile wetland area which ought not to have been disturbed by the development activity. The fragile environment of the catchment area has been exposed to grave and irreparable damage. It has severely disturbed and damaged the Rajakaluves. Respondents 9 and 10 started to level the land by filling it with debris, thus causing damage to the drains. The conditions with regard to no disturbance to the storm water drains, natural valleys and buffer area in and around the Rajakaluves have been violated. It has in turn, affected the groundwater table and borewells which are the only source of water for thousands of households. Fishing and agriculture which depends on Bellandur Lake are also severely affected. The construction over the wetland between the two lakes is in violation of the Wetlands (Conservation of Management) Rules, 2010 (for short “the 2010 Rules”).

8. It was submitted that Seiaa in its meeting dated 29-9-2012, decided to close the file pertaining to Respondent 10 due to non-submission of requisite information and the application thereof was rejected in November 2012. Despite the rejection, Respondent 10 commenced construction on the project in full swing.

9. The applicants also relied upon the findings of the Joint Legislative Committee, constituted under the Chairmanship of Shri A.T. Ramaswamy in the month of July 2005, which stated that there were 262 waterbodies in Bangalore City in 1961 which drastically came down because of trespass and encroachments. It was also affirmed that about 840 km of Rajakaluves have been encroached upon in several places and have become sewage channels. The applicants also relied on the report of the Committee under the Chairmanship of Hon'ble Justice N.K. Patil suggesting immediate remedial action in order to remove encroachments on the lake area and the Rajakaluves and preservation of the lakes in and around Bangalore City. It was further contended that other Expert Committees, including Lakshman Rau Expert Committee had also submitted proposals for preservation, restoration or otherwise of the existing tanks in Bangalore metropolitan area which recommended to maintain good water surface in Bellandur tank and to ensure that the water in the tank is not polluted. The Central Government in August 2013 had issued an advisory on conservation and restoration of waterbodies in the urban areas. The applicants claim to have obtained monitoring report of the project by Respondent 5, Ministry of Environment and Forests, through RTI on 21-8-2013. The report dated 14-8-2013 revealed that the project proponents are in clear breach of their undertaking to carry out all precautionary measures to ensure that Bellandur Lake is not affected by the construction and operational phase of the project. This approach is particularly with regard to the major alteration in natural sloping pattern of the project site and natural hydrology of the area.

10. The Lake Development Authority (for short “LDA”), after inspection in the catchment area of Bellandur Lake submitted its report dated 12-6-2013 which confirms that the project will have disastrous impact, including deleterious effect on Bellandur Lake. This report was brought to the notice of Kiadb. LDA has also opined that the land should be classified and maintained as sensitive area. Kiadb called upon Respondent 9 to comply with the rules of Ecology and Environment Department and to obtain necessary approval from Kspcb and LDA. Despite all this, Respondents 9 and 10 have continued with their illegal constructions and have caused damage to the ecology and the environment by irreparably jeopardising the ecological balance in this sensitive area. The applicants rely upon the Revised Master Plan, 2013 issued by BDA which specifically provides that 30 m buffer zone is to be created around the lakes and 50 m buffer zone to be created on either side of the Rajakaluves. It was also pleaded that Respondent 9 had obtained the NOC from Bwssb only with regard to residential units and not for the entire project and that the environmental clearance obtained by Respondent 9 is based upon the partial NOC issued by Bwssb which itself is a misrepresentation. It was contended that the projects are bound to create water scarcity as the requirement of the project of Respondent 9 alone is approximately 4.5 million litres per day i.e. 135 million litres per month, which is more than what Bwssb supplies to the entire Agaram Ward. The construction of respective projects by Respondents 9 and 10 respectively, besides having commenced without permission from the authorities and being in violation of the conditions imposed for grant of permission/consent, is bound to damage the environment, resulting in change in the topography of the area, posing potential threat of extinction of Bellandur Lake, causing traffic congestion, shortening and wiping out the wetlands, extinction of Rajakaluves and causing serious and potential threat of flooding and massive scarcity of water in the city of Bangalore, particularly the areas located near the waterbodies.

11. Respondent 9 in its objections contended that it was incorporated with the objective of establishing an information technology park and R&D Centre with facilities such as residential complexes, parks, education centres and other allied infrastructure within a single compound. It had submitted the proposal to establish such information technology park and other facilities to the State Government and requested for allotment of land for the project. Its proposal was considered in 78th High-Level Committee meeting held on 21-6-2000 and after examining the proposal, it was approved by the Government on 6-7-2000. Before the State High-Level Committee, it had informed that its requirement was 110 ac of land, 25 MW of power from the Karnataka Power Transmission Corpn. Ltd. (for short “Kptcl”), and four lakh litres of water per day from Bwssb. The lands for the project were initially notified vide Notification dated 10-2-2004. Subsequently, the lands were allotted vide letter dated 28-6-2007 for which lease-cum-sale agreement was signed on 30-6-2007. Considering the overall development of the State of Bangalore, this respondent proposed a Mixed Use Development Project consisting of an information technology park, residential apartments, retail, hotel and office buildings with a total built-up area of 13,50,454.98 sq m. The Project was conceived as a zero waste discharge project. The Project is located one-and-a-half kilometres away from the southern side of Bellandur Lake. Towards the north, adjacent to the Project, lies vast stretches of lands belonging to the Defence and towards the east, lies the project of Respondent 10 and another developer is also developing a project on the western side. It has obtained sanction plan on 4-7-2007 which was renewed from time to time.

12. Respondent 9 claims that it has obtained NOC from Airport Authority of India on 9-4-2010. Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd., vide its communication dated 16-4-2010, granted clearance for the project construction. Bwssb, vide its communication dated 26-4-2011 issued NOC for portion of the proposed construction to be built. Bangalore Electricity Supply Co. Ltd. also granted NOC for arranging power supply to the proposed residential and commercial building in its favour. Environmental clearance was granted by Seiaa vide communication dated 17-4-2012. The Director General of Police has issued NOC and Kspcb vide order dated 4-9-2012 accorded its consent for construction of the said Project subject to the conditions stated therein. It was further stated that after grant of the environmental clearance on 17-9-2012, the same was published in the leading newspapers Kannada Prabha and The Indian Express on 12-3-2012 and 14-3-2014 respectively.

13. It submitted a modified building plan which was approved by Kiadb vide its letter dated 30-8-2012, which was valid up to 10-8-2014. It started the construction of the Project in November 2012, taking all precautions as per terms and conditions of the orders issued by the competent authorities. It was also submitted that it has raised the constructions in accordance with the plans and conditions of the environmental clearance and consent orders and that it has not violated any of the conditions and has not caused any adverse impact on the ecology and environment of the area. It has denied the contention that its construction activity has blocked the Rajakaluves and has adversely affected the lake. It has already spent a sum of Rs 306.73 crores on the Project towards procurement of men and materials, machinery, infrastructure, medical and sanitary facilities, etc. and that it has availed financial assistance from various banks and financial institutions towards the construction and execution of the project and that various contracts have been signed with the third parties. It is specifically pleaded that the petition is barred by time and suffers from defects and laches.

14. Respondent 10 pleaded that the applicants raised multifarious proceedings against it which is an abuse of the process of law and mala fides. It had submitted a revised proposal in respect of its project in question and to obtain fresh clearance on 31-8-2007 with an investment of Rs 179.22 crores. The State High-Level Committee had cleared the project which was communicated to it on 25-1-2008. Its properties are located in between Bellandur Lake and Agara Lake but there are no primary storm water drains and secondary storm water drains that exist in its properties. It has clearances from various authorities, including Environmental Clearance and consent for establishment.

15. Kiadb stated that after possession of the land was handed over to Respondents 9 and 10, one year time was granted for the implementation of the Project which was extended from time to time. The building drawings were approved on 4-7-2007, and the modified building drawings were approved on 26-4-2011 and 30-8-2012 with specific conditions. In its meeting held on 16-7-2013, it was resolved to inform Respondents 9 to fully comply with the Ecology and Environment Rules and to obtain approvals from LDA and Kspcb. LDA vide its letter dated 24-9-2013, had informed Kiadb that the construction activity in the catchment area in Bellandur Lake could drastically impact the lake with deleterious effects and asked it to stop construction activity of Respondents 9 and 10. However, the validity of the building drawings was again extended up to 10-8-2014. The Lokayukta on 17-12-2013 had written a letter in respect of complaint filed by the South-East Forum for Sustainable Development where it had been averred that the decision had been taken by the Board on 21-12-2013 to keep in abeyance the approval accorded and even the re-validations of plans. This was also informed to Respondent 9. The Board took a decision which was communicated to Respondent 9 on 2-1-2014, wherein it asked Respondent 9 to stop all construction activities on the allotted lands. The said communication was challenged by Respondent 9 and on the stop-work notice, stay was granted by the High Court of Karnataka. The stop-work notice dated 23-12-2013 issued by Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (for short “BBMP”) was also stayed vide order dated 21-1-2014. The proposal submitted by Respondents 9 and 10 had been approved by the State Government. The land allotted to Respondents 9 and 10 does not consist of any Rajakaluves.

16. LDA took a stand that it was not at all aware of the project initiated by Kiadb. It came to know about the entire project only when certain newspaper reports surfaced during the month of June 2013 and till that time it was in the dark. After the complaints, it inspected Bellandur Lake and Agara Lake on 12-6-2013 and prepared an inspection report. In the report, it was noticed that large-scale construction activities were going on in the catchment area of Bellandur Lake and that there was a change in the land use, which in turn has directly affected the catchment of Bellandur Lake. The wetland area of Agara Lake had also shrunk, which originally formed the irrigation area for the adjoining agricultural lands. Therefore, it had questioned the decision of Kiadb vide letter dated 6-7-2013 and even requested it to stop the construction activity and to re-classify the land as non-SEZ area. It was thereafter on 31-8-2013, that Respondent 9 wrote a letter for according approval for the proposed development projects. However, vide its letter dated 23-9-2013, LDA informed Kiadb that it had no authority to grant or deny construction projects, but it also communicated its objections to Kiadb mentioning that construction activity would be in contravention of the directions of the Supreme Court. Despite these warnings, Kiadb granted approval to the extension of the building drawings of the project in favour of the project proponents with certain conditions, like ensuring that all natural valleys, valley zone, irrigation tanks and existing roads leading to villages in the said land should not be disturbed. Further, the natural sloping pattern of the project site was not to be altered and the lakes and other waterbodies within and/or at the vicinity of the project area should be protected and conserved. Despite the objections, the plans were approved and approvals were extended from time to time. It has taken a categorical stand that the projects as approved by Kiadb would have adverse impact on Bellandur and Agara Lakes.

17. On the basis of the pleadings of the parties, the Tribunal framed the following questions for consideration and determination:

17.1. Whether the application filed by the applicants and supported by Respondents 11 and 12, is barred by time and thus, not maintainable?

17.2. Whether the petition as framed and reliefs claimed therein, disclose a cause of action over which this Tribunal has jurisdiction to entertain and decide the application under the provisions of the NGT Act, 2010?

17.3. Whether the present application is barred by the principle of res judicata and/or constructive res judicata?

17.4. Whether the application filed by the applicants should not be entertained or it is not maintainable before the Tribunal, in view of the pendency of Writ Petitions Nos. 36567-74 of 2013, before the Hon'ble High Court of Karnataka? and

17.5. What relief, if any, are the applicants entitled to? Should or not the Tribunal, in the interest of environment and ecology issue any directions and if so, to what effect?

18. The Tribunal by its order dated 7-5-2015 2015 SCC OnLine NGT 5 at Annexure A-2, disposed of the applications with the following directions : (Forward Foundation case 2015 SCC OnLine NGT 5, SCC Online NGT para 85)

“85. … (1) We decline to pass any direction or order to stop further progress and/or demolition of the project or any part thereof at this stage. However, we constitute the following Committee to inspect the projects in question and submit a report to the Tribunal inter alia but specifically on the issues stated hereinafter:

(a) Advisor in the Ministry of Environment and Forest dealing with the subject of wetlands.

(b) CEO of the Lake Development Authority, Karnataka State.

(c) Chief Town Planner of BBMP, Bangalore.

(d) Chairman of SEAC which recommended the grant of environmental clearance to the projects in question.

(e) Sr. Scientist (Ecology) from the Indian Institute of Sciences, Bangalore.

(f) Dr Siddharth Kaul, former Advisor to MoEF.

(g) A senior officer from the National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee.

(2) Member-Secretary of the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board shall act as the Convener of the Committee and would submit the final report to the Tribunal.

(3) The Committee shall inspect not only the sites where the projects in question are located but even other areas of Bangalore which the Committee in its wisdom may consider appropriate, in order to examine the interconnectivity of lakes and impact of such activities upon the waterbodies, with particular reference to lakes.

(4) The Committee shall submit whether the projects in question have encroached upon or are constructed on the wetlands and Rajakaluves. If so, are there any adverse environmental and ecological impact of these projects on the lake particularly, Bellandur Lake and Agara Lake, as well the Rajakaluves. The report should specify if any Rajakaluves have been covered by the construction activities of Respondents 9 and 10 or by any of the projects in the area in question.

(5) Committee should submit in its report if these projects have any adverse impacts upon the surrounding ecology and environment, with particular reference to lakes and wetlands. If yes, then whether any part of the project is required to be demolished. If so, details thereof along with reasons.

(6) The Committee shall substantially notice if any of the conditions of the environmental clearance order in each case of Respondents 9 and 10 have been violated. If so, to what extent and suggest remedial measures in that behalf to restore the ecology of the area.

(7) The Committee would also recommend what should be the buffer zone around the lake(s) and interconnecting passages and wetlands. The Committee shall also report whether activities of multipurpose projects which have serious repercussions on traffic, air pollution, environment and allied subjects should be permitted any further or not, particularly, in wetlands and catchment areas of waterbodies.

(8) Recommendations should be made with regard to the steps and measures that should be taken for restoration of lakes, particularly, in the city of Bangalore.

(9) The Committee shall also find out that whether the construction ofthe projects is in accordance with the sanctioned drawings and bye-lawsinaccordance with the letters dated 4-7-2007 and 22-4-2008 respectively. Further, the Committee would also report whether both Respondents 9 and 10 have installed ETP/STP and have taken full measures for recycling of used water for washing and flushing, etc., in terms of letters dated 11-10-2013 and 3-1-2013, issued by the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board to Respondents 9 and 10 respectively.

(10) In the event, the Committee is of the opinion that the adverse impacts noticed are redeemable, then what directions need to be issued in that behalf and the cost involved for achieving the said conservation and restoration of lakes and waterbodies.

(11) Till the submission of the report by the Committee and directions passed by the Tribunal in that regard, both Respondents 9 and 10 are hereby restrained from creating any third party interests or part with the possession of the property in question or any part thereof, in favour of any person.

(12) The Committee shall submit its report to MoEF and to this Tribunal as expeditiously as possible and in any case not later than three months from today. During that period we restrain MoEF, Seiaa and/or any public authority from sanctioning any construction project on the wetlands and catchment areas of the waterbodies in the city of Bangalore.

(13) The Committee shall report if the project proponents are proposing to discharge their trade or domestic effluents into the lake or any of the waterbodies in and around of the area in question.

(14) For the reasons stated in the judgment Respondent 9 is liable and shall pay a sum of Rs 117.35 crores, while Respondent 10 shall pay a sum of Rs 22.5 crores respectively being 5% of the project value, within two weeks from today. The said amount would be paid to Kspcb, which shall maintain a separate account for the same and would spend this amount for environmental and ecological restoration, restitution and other measures to be taken to rectify the damage resulting from default and non-compliance to law by the project proponent in that area, after taking approval of the Tribunal.

(15) We make it clear that the said respondents would not be entitled to pass on the amount in terms of Direction 14, onto the purchasers because this liability accrues as a result of their own intentional defaults, disobedience of law in force and carrying on project activities and construction illegally and unauthorisedly.”

19. Feeling aggrieved by the said order, Respondents 9 and 10 filed Civil Appeals Nos. 4829 and 4832 of 2015 before this Court. This Court by its order dated 20-5-2015 2015 SCC OnLine SC 1778 passed the following order : [Core Mind Software & Services (P) Ltd. case 2015 SCC OnLine SC 1778, SCC OnLine SC paras 2-5]

“2. One of the main contentions raised by the appellants in these appeals is that though the Tribunal had heard the matter only on preliminary issues and no arguments on merit were advanced, final judgment decides the merits of the disputes as well and above all a penalty of Rs 117.35 crores against the original Respondent 9 (the appellant in CA No. 4832 of 2015) and Rs 22.5 crores against original Respondent 10 (the appellant in CA No. 4829/2015) is imposed.

3. On the aforesaid averment, we feel that it would be more appropriate for the appellant to file an application before the Tribunal with the prayer to recall the order on merits and decide the matter afresh after hearing the counsel for the parties, as the Tribunal knows better as to what transpired at the time of hearing.

4. With the aforesaid liberty granted to the petitioners, the appeals are disposed of. Certain preliminary issues are decided against the appellants which are also the subject-matter of challenge. However, it is not necessary to deal with the same at this stage. We make it clear that in case the said application is decided against the appellants or if ultimately on merits, it would be open to the appellants to challenge those orders by filing the appeal and in that appeal all the issues which are decided in the impugned judgment 2015 SCC OnLine NGT 5 can also be raised.

5. The counsel for the appellants state that they would file the requisite application within one week. Till the said application is decided by the Tribunal, there shall be stay of the direction pertaining the payment of aforesaid penalty. Mr Raj Panjwani points out that the Tribunal has allowed the appellants to proceed with the construction only on the payment of the aforesaid fine/penalty. We leave it to the Tribunal to pass whatever orders it deems fit in this behalf, after hearing the parties.”

20. In relation to Issue 5, an opportunity of hearing was granted to the respondents. The Tribunal passed order dated 6-4-2016 2016 SCC OnLine NGT 637 on these applications as under : (Forward Foundation case 2016 SCC OnLine NGT 637, SCC OnLine NGT)

“MA No. 603 of 2015 and MA No. 596 of 2015

These applications have been filed on behalf of Respondents 9 and 10 respectively. It is not necessary for us to refer to any details in view of the directions that we propose to issue in this case.

Without prejudice to the rights and contentions of the parties and subject to just exception we would hear the parties in terms of the order of the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India primarily on the question of imposition of environmental compensation and merits attached in relation thereto. Parties are given liberty to address their submissions on that behalf.

With the above directions MA No. 603 of 2015 and MA No. 596 of 2015 stand disposed of without any order as to cost.”

21. It is evident from the above orders that the Tribunal had granted opportunity to the parties to address it “limited question”, as aforementioned. The Tribunal after hearing the parties passed an order dated 4-5-2016 2016 SCC OnLine NGT 1409 as under : (Forward Foundation case 2016 SCC OnLine NGT 1409, SCC OnLine NGT)

“General conditions or directions

1. In view of our discussion in the main judgment, we are of the considered view that the fixation of distance from waterbodies (lakes and Rajkalewas) suffers from the inbuilt contradiction, legal infirmity and is without any scientific justification. The RMP 2015 provides 50 m from middle of the Rajkalewas as buffer zone in the case of primary Rajkalewas, 25 m in the case of secondary Rajkulewas and 15 m in the tertiary Rajkulewas in contradiction to 30 m in the case of lake which is certainly much bigger waterbody and its utility as a waterbody/wetland is well known certainly part of wet land. Thus, we direct that the distance in the case of Respondents 9 and 10 from Rajkulewas, waterbodies and wetlands shall be maintained as below—

(i) In the case of lakes, 75 m from the periphery of waterbody to be maintained as green belt and buffer zone for all the existing waterbodies i.e. lakes/wetlands.

(ii) 50 m from the edge of the primary Rajkulewas.

(iii) 35 m from the edges in the case of secondary Rajkulewas.

(iv) 25 m from the edges in the case of tertiary Rajkulewas.

This buffer/green zone would be treated as no construction zone for all intent and purposes. This is absolutely essential for the purposes of sustainable development particularly keeping in mind the ecology and environment of the areas in question.

All the offending constructions raised by Respondents 9 and 10 of any kind including boundary wall shall be demolished which falls within such areas. Wherever necessary dredging operations are required, the same should be carried out to restore the original capacity of the water spread area and/or wetlands. Not only the existing construction would be removed but also none of these respondents — project proponent would be permitted to raise any construction in this zone.

All authorities particularly Lake Development Authority shall carry out this operation in respect of all the waterbodies/lakes of Bangalore.

2. The capacity of the existing STPs to treat sewage is 729 MLD, whereas another 500 MLD sewage is proposed to be treated in 10 upcoming STPs. In this context, all the STPs operating in the area whether Government or privately owned, should meet the revised standards notified by CPCB/MoEF.

3. Bangalore City receives treated potable water of 1360 MLD from River Cauvery whereas the requirement is for another 750 MLD and the entire area falls in critical zone in terms of groundwater exploitation. Information reveals that only one million litre per month of STP treated water is used by builders for construction purposes. For this reason, the Bwssb issues partial NOC to various residential and commercial projects in respect of supply of potable water. In this context, following directions need to be issued:

(i) At the time of grant of EC, the water requirement for the construction phase and operation phase should be considered separately. Due consideration should also be given for identification of source of supply of water and this should be a prerequisite for grant of EC.

(ii) All the project proponents should necessarily use only treated sewage water for construction purpose and this should be reflected in EC as a condition for construction phase.

(iii) Wherever the quality of treated sewage water does not conform to the quality needed for construction, necessary upgradation in STP should be undertaken immediately.

Specific conditions/directions for Respondent 9

In addition to the above directions which should be equally part of EC condition in respect of Respondents 9 and 10, following specific conditions shall apply to Respondent 9:

(i) Reclaimed area of the lake to the extent of 3 ac 10 guntas in Survey No. 43 should be restored to its original condition at the cost of project proponent. The possession of this area should be restored by Respondent 9 to the authorities concerned immediately. In addition, a buffer zone of 75 m should be provided between the lake and the project area and this should be maintained as green area.

(ii) In the remaining area, where primary Rajkalewa is abutting the project area, 50 m buffer zone on the side of the project area from the edge of the Rajkalewa should be maintained as green belt.

(iii) Several irrigation canals or tertiary Rajkalewas taking off from the Agara tank were passing through the area of Respondent 9, and serve the dual purpose of irrigating paddy fields and disposal of surface run off (storm water drains) during rainy season. However on account of the activities of the project, these drains have been totally obliterated. For the purpose of proper disposal of storm runoff from the entire area falling between Agara Lake and Belandur Lake, Respondent 9 must provide required number of storm water drains based on proper hydrological study. These storm drains should have a buffer zone of 15 m on either bank maintained as green belt.

(iv) The cumulative quantity of earth excavated for the construction of project is around 4 lakhs cubic metres in the depth range of 0 to 9 m. This has created huge hillock like structure obstructing the natural flow pattern of surface runoff from Agara Lake side to Balendur Lake side or primary Rajkalewas. For this purpose, during construction phase garland drain should be constructed around the existing dumping site for safe disposal of runoff to the Rajkalewas. For the disposal of excavated material, a proper muck disposal plan duly approved by Seiaa shall be prepared. In any case the plan should ensure that no muck/sediment flows into Rajkalewas and/or Belandur Lake.

(v) The kharab land identified by Revenue Department admeasuring 1 ac 2 guntas should be demarcated and maintained separately as green belt.

(vi) The entire green belt created under the directions of this Tribunal should not to be considered as part of green belt of the project as part of EC condition and will be over and above the green belt as indicated in the EC.

(vii) In view of the heavy traffic load in the adjoining Sarjapur Road, a proper study on the basis of traffic density, foot falls expected, etc., a proper plan needs to be prepared and the concept of service road exclusively for the project needs to be worked out and additional parking space created within the project area and incorporated as a part of the overall project layout, within a period of 3 months.

***

10. Though, at the time of hearing prior to passing of the judgment, we had heard the parties on all aspects but still we have provided rehearing to the parties on all issues with emphasis on imposition of environmental compensation including the quantum. Upon hearing, we are of the considered view that environmental compensation imposed upon Respondent 9 calls for no variation and Respondent 9 should be called upon to pay the said amount of Rs 117.35 crores determined under the judgment prior to commencement of any project activity at the site. Respondent 10 has not commenced any actual construction activity but has carried out various preparatory steps including excavation and deposition of huge earth by creating a hillock at the premises in question and a site office.

Thus, considering cumulative effect on environment and ecology due to various breaches in that behalf by Respondent 10 and the fact that the remedial measures can more effectively be taken by Respondent 10, we reduce environmental compensation payable by Respondent 10 to Rs 13.5 crores (3% of the stated project cost instead of 5% as imposed in the original judgment).

General directions

1. We direct Seiaa, Karnataka to issue amended order granting environmental clearance within four weeks from today incorporating all the conditions stated in this judgment and such other conditions as it may deem appropriate in light of this judgment and inspection note of the expert members. The project proponents would be permitted to commence activity only after issuance of amended environmental clearance order.

2. Seiaa Karnataka and MoEF shall ensure regular supervision and monitoring of the project and during the construction and even upon completion to ensure that activity is carried out strictly in accordance with the conditions of the order granting environmental clearance, this judgment, notification of 2006 and other laws in force.

3. The distances in respect of buffer zone specified in this judgment shall be made applicable to all the projects and all the authorities concerned are directed to incorporate such conditions in the projects to whom environmental clearance and other permissions are now granted not only around Belandur Lake, Rajkulewas, Agara Lake, but also all other lakes/wetlands in the city of Bengaluru.

4. We hereby direct the State of Karnataka to submit a proposal to MoEF for demarcating wetlands in terms of the Wetland Rules, 2010 as revised from time to time. Such proposal shall be submitted by the State within four weeks from today and MoEF shall consider the same in accordance with law and grant its approval or otherwise within four weeks thereafter. After such approval is granted by MoEF, the State would issue notification notifying such areas immediately thereafter in accordance with Rules and law.

5. Both Respondents 9 and 10 shall ensure that debris or any construction material that has been dumped into the Rajkulewas, or on their banks and on the buffer zone of wetlands should be removed within four weeks from today. In the event they fail to do so, the same shall be removed by the Lake Development Authority along with the State Administration and recover charges thereof from the said respondents.

6. There is a serious discrepancy even in regard to the measurement of land as far as Respondent 9 is concerned. Admittedly the respondent has been allotted and is in possession of land admeasuring 63.94 ac, though environmental clearance has been granted for 2,92,636.03 sq m which is equivalent to 72.22 ac. For this reason alone, environmental clearance cannot be given effect to. While issuing the amended environmental clearance, Seiaa Karnataka shall take into consideration all these aspects and, if necessary, would require Respondent 9 to submit a fresh layout plant and the entire project may be revised in accordance with law.

7. Both the respondents (project proponents) shall submit an appropriate plan in view of the conditions imposed in this judgment and the amended environmental clearance that would be issued.

8. The amount of environmental compensation will be deposited prior to issuance of amended environmental clearance.

With the above directions, Original Application No. 222 of 2014 and Miscellaneous Applications Nos. 596 of 2016 and 603 of 2016 are finally disposed of while leaving the parties to bear their own costs.”

(emphasis in original)

22. Appearing for the appellants in CA No. 5016 of 2016, Shri Mukul Rohatgi, learned Senior Counsel, has submitted that the State Government in exercise of the power conferred under the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Act (for short “the KIAD Act”) declared the land in question as an industrial area. Thereafter, the land in question has been acquired by the State Government in the year 2004. Following the acquisition, on 28-6-2007, the land was allotted to the appellant by Kiadb. Seiaa granted environmental clearance which was followed by public notice concerning clearance on 14-3-2012. Neither the allotment of land nor the environmental clearance was challenged before the Tribunal. Thus, none of the statutory decisions or processes, are the cause of action for the purpose of the application. The averments made in the original application does not satisfy or meet the requirements of Sections 14(1) and (3) of the NGT Act and the original application does not spell out the cause of action relevant for the purpose of the said provision. Since the statutory processes and clearances could not have been challenged for being hit by Section 14(3), the construction activities which were the alleged cause of action could not have been challenged. Therefore, the Tribunal ought to have held that the application was not maintainable.

23. Further, the application is barred by limitation. Though environmental clearance was granted on 17-2-2012 and it was published in two leading newspapers on 12-3-2012 and 14-3-2012, modified plan was approved by Kiadb on 30-8-2012, the application ought to have been filed within six months from the date on which cause of action for the dispute first arose in terms of Section 14 of the NGT Act. The present application has been filed in March 2014 which was much beyond the prescribed period of limitation. No application seeking condonation of delay has been filed accompanying the application. Hence, the Tribunal ought to have dismissed the application on the ground that as it is barred by time.

24. It was also argued that buffer zone laid down by NGT is substantially higher as compared to buffer zone which is required to be maintained as per the Revised Master Plan, 2015 issued on 22-6-2007. This is contrary to the Karnataka Town and Country Planning Act, 1961 (for short “the Planning Act”).

25. Shri Neeraj Kishan Kaul and Shri R. Venkataramani, learned Senior Counsel appearing for the appellants, in this case have also made similar submissions. It was argued that the direction imposing penalty/compensation is illegal on the ground that the applicants did not allege that the construction work of the project has caused environmental wrong. No wrong or injury either to Bellandur Lake waterbody or to Bellandur Lake area, has been alleged and established. As such, there is no question of any enquiry relating to imposition of penalty or any compensation.

26. Shri Maninder Singh, learned Senior Counsel appearing for the appellants, in CAs Nos. 5016 and 10995 of 2016, while supporting the submissions made by Shri Rohatgi, has submitted that the appellant has obtained sanction and approvals for the project from the competent authorities. It could not start construction despite grant of all the permissions, including environmental clearance as early as possible i.e. 30-9-2013. Hence, imposing penalty/compensation is entirely unsustainable.

27. The learned Advocate General, Shri Udaya Holla, appearing for the appellant State of Karnataka in CAs Nos. 4923-24 of 2017, has submitted that the State of Karnataka is also aggrieved by the order of NGT to the extent of setting aside the buffer zone in respect of waterbodies and drains specified in the Revised Master Plan, 2015, and enlargement of the buffer zone in respect of lakes and Rajakaluves. It is also aggrieved by the order of NGT directing the authorities to demolish all the offending constructions raised/built in the buffer zone, which will result in demolition of 95% of the buildings in Bengaluru. It is submitted that the Revised Master Plan is statutory in nature and NGT has no power, competence or jurisdiction to consider the validity or vires of any statutory provision/regulation. Therefore, the order of NGT to that extent is liable to be set aside.

28. The learned Senior Counsel appearing for the appellants in other cases, have also supported the arguments of the learned Advocate General. It was contended that the Revised Master Plan provides for a 30 m buffer zone around the lakes and a buffer zone of 50 m, 25 m and 15 m from the primary, secondary and tertiary drains, respectively to be measured from the centre of the drain. Vide the impugned judgment, NGT has revised these buffer zones and has directed that the buffer zone be maintained for 75 m around the lake and 50, 35 and 25 m respectively from the primary, secondary and tertiary drain, respectively. Variation of buffer zone, as directed by NGT is without any legal and scientific basis and has the effect of amending the Revised Master Plan, 2015, without there being any challenge to the same or any relief sought with respect to the said Revised Master Plan.

29. On the other hand, Shri Sajan Poovayya, learned Senior Counsel, appearing for the applicants, has fairly submitted that the applications were filed only against the appellants in CAs Nos. 5016 and 8002-03 of 2016 (Respondents 9 and 10). He has no objection to set aside the order insofar as the appellants in other appeals including the State of Karnataka are concerned. He has also no objection to set aside the general conditions and directions of NGT in para 1 of the order dated 4-5-2016 2016 SCC OnLine NGT 1409 except the directions issued against Respondents 9 and 10. In view of the above, it is not necessary to examine the contentions of the learned Advocate General in Civil Appeals Nos. 4923-24 of 2017. It is also not necessary to consider the contentions urged in the other civil appeals except the appeals filed by Respondents 9 and 10.

30. Shri Poovayya has strongly opposed the submissions made by the learned Senior Counsel appearing for the appellants in CA No. 5016 of 2016 and CAs Nos. 8002-03 of 2016. It is submitted that the Tribunal is a specialised body for effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources including enforcement of any legal right relating to environment. The jurisdiction of the Tribunal is provided under Sections 14, 15 and 16 of the NGT Act. Section 14 provides for the jurisdiction over all civil cases where a substantial question relating to environment is involved. However, such question should arise out of implementation of the enactments specified in Schedule I. The Tribunal has the jurisdiction under Section 15(1)(a) of the NGT Act to provide relief and compensation to the victims of pollution and other environmental damage arising under the enactments specified in Schedule I. Under Sections 15(1)(b) and 15(1)(c), the Tribunal can provide for restitution of property damaged and for restitution of the environment for such area or areas, as the Tribunal may think fit. Sections 15(1)(b) and 15(1)(c) have not been made relatable to enactment specified in Schedule I of the Act. Section 15(1)(c) is an entire island of power and jurisdiction read with Section 21 of the Act. He submits that whenever ecology is being compromised and jeopardised, the Tribunal can apply Section 20 for taking restorative measures in the interest of environment. The limitation provided in Section 14 is period of six months from the date on which cause of action first arose whereas in Section 15 it is five years. Therefore, the petition is not barred by time.

31. He has further submitted that the provisions of Section 33 shall have the effect notwithstanding anything inconsistent contained in any other law for the time being in force. This gives the Tribunal overriding powers over anything inconsistently contained in the KIAD Act, Planning Act, Revised Master Plan of Bangalore, 2015 and Karnataka Municipal Corporation Act, 1976 (for short “the KMC Act”). Therefore, the Tribunal while providing for restoration of environment in an area can specify buffer zone around specific lakes and waterbodies in contravention with zoning regulation.

32. Regarding limitation, he has submitted that the application filed by Respondents 1 to 3 was not an application simpliciter under Section 14 of the Act. It was an application where a specific prayer has been made with reference to Lake Development Authority's report dated 12-6-2013 and the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change Monitoring Committee Report dated 14-8-2013 for restoration of ecologically sensitive land and for maintaining sensitive area in its natural condition so that ecological balance of the area is not disturbed. Therefore, the petition was under Section 15 of the Act and it can be filed within five years from the date on which the cause for such compensation or relief first arose.

33. It was further submitted that right to appeal under Section 22 is not a vested right unless provided by statute. Exercise of appellate jurisdiction without the fulfilment of statutory mandate would be without jurisdiction. Section 22 of the Act provides for an appeal on the ground specified in Section 100 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (for short “CPC”). Under Section 100 CPC, an appeal can be filed only on the ground that the case involves a substantial question of law as may be framed by the appellate court. In the instant case, the appeal does not involve any substantial question of law hence it has to be dismissed in limine. He has taken us through various materials placed on record in order to substantiate that the direction passed and penalty imposed by the Tribunal upon to project proponents are sustainable. He prays for dismissal of the appeals.

34. We have carefully considered the submissions of the learned counsel of the parties and perused the materials placed on record.

35. Before considering the other contentions of the learned counsel for the parties, let us first consider the scope of enquiry in appeals filed under Section 22, which is as under:

“22. Appeal to Supreme Court.—Any person aggrieved by any award, decision or order of the tribunal, may, file an appeal to the Supreme Court, within ninety days from the date of communication of the award, decision or order of the Tribunal, to him, on any one or more of the grounds specified in Section 100 of the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 (5 of 1908):

Provided that the Supreme Court may entertain any appeal after the expiry of ninety days, if it is satisfied that the appellant was prevented by sufficient cause from preferring the appeal.”

36. It is settled that there is no vested right of appeal unless the statute so provides. Further, if a statute provides for a condition subject to which the appropriate appellate court can exercise jurisdiction, the court is under an obligation to satisfy itself whether the condition prescribed is fulfilled. Exercise of appellate jurisdiction without the fulfilment of statutory mandate would be without jurisdiction. Therefore, the right of appeal provided under Section 22 is to be read subject to the conditions provided therein.

37. Section 22 provides for an appeal to the Supreme Court on the grounds specified in Section 100 CPC. Under Section 100 CPC, an appeal can be filed only on the ground that the case involves a substantial question of law as may be framed by the appellate court. The scope of appeal under Section 22, therefore, is restricted to substantial question of law arising from the judgment of the Tribunal. The test to determine whether the question is substantial question of law or not was laid down by a Constitution Bench of this Court in Chunilal V. Mehta & Sons Ltd. v. Century Spg. & Mfg. Co. Ltd.v. 1962 Supp (3) SCR 549, AIR 1962 SC 1314 This Court has laid down the test as under : (AIR p. 1318, para 6)

“6. … The proper test for determining whether a question of law raised in the case is substantial would, in our opinion, be whether it is of general public importance or whether it directly and substantially affects the rights of the parties and if so whether it is either an open question in the sense that it is not finally settled by this Court or by the Privy Council or by the Federal Court or is not free from difficulty or calls for discussion of alternative views. If the question is settled by the highest court or the general principles to be applied in determining the question are well settled and there is a mere question of applying those principles or that the plea raised is palpably absurd the question would not be a substantial question of law.”

38. It is equally settled that merely because the remedy of appeal is provided against the decision of the Tribunal on a substantial question of law alone, that does not ipso facto permit the appellants to agitate their appeal to seek reappreciation of the factual matrix of the entire matter. The appellants cannot seek to re-argue their entire case to seek wholesale reappreciation of evidence and the factual matrix that has been considered by the Tribunal is ex facie impermissible under Section 22. There cannot be fresh appreciation or reappreciation of facts and evidence in a statutory appeal under this provision.

39. The first question raised by the learned counsel is in relation to the maintainability of the application before the Tribunal.

40. The Tribunal has been established under a constitutional mandate provided in Schedule VII List I Entry 13 of the Constitution of India, to implement the decision taken at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development. The Tribunal is a specialised judicial body for effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources including enforcement of any legal right relating to environment. The right to healthy environment has been construed as a part of the right to life under Article 21 by way of judicial pronouncements. Therefore, the Tribunal has special jurisdiction for enforcement of environmental rights.

41. The jurisdiction of the Tribunal is provided under Sections 14, 15 and 16 of the Act. Section 14 provides the jurisdiction over all civil cases where a substantial question relating to environment (including enforcement of any legal right relating to environment) is involved. However, such question should arise out of implementation of the enactments specified in Schedule I.

42. The Tribunal has also jurisdiction under Section 15(1)(a) of the Act to provide relief and compensation to the victims of pollution and other environmental damage arising under the enactments specified in Schedule I. Further, under Sections 15(1)(b) and 15(1)(c), the Tribunal can provide for restitution of property damaged and for restitution of the environment for such area or areas as the Tribunal may think fit. It is noteworthy that Sections 15(1)(b) and (c) have not been made relatable to Schedule I enactments of the Act. Rightly so, this grants a glimpse into the wide range of powers that the Tribunal has been cloaked with respect to restoration of the environment.

43. Section 15(1)(c) of the Act is an entire island of power and jurisdiction read with Section 20 of the Act. The principles of sustainable development, precautionary principle and polluter pays, propounded by this Court by way of multiple judicial pronouncements, have now been embedded as a bedrock of environmental jurisprudence under the NGT Act. Therefore, wherever the environment and ecology are being compromised and jeopardised, the Tribunal can apply Section 20 for taking restorative measures in the interest of the environment.

44. The NGT Act being a beneficial legislation, the power bestowed upon the Tribunal would not be read narrowly. An interpretation which furthers the interests of environment must be given a broader reading. (See Kishore Lal v. ESI Corpn. (2007) 4 SCC 579, para 17.) The existence of the Tribunal without its broad restorative powers under Section 15(1)(c) read with Section 20 of the Act, would render it ineffective and toothless, and shall betray the legislative intent in setting up a specialised Tribunal specifically to address environmental concerns. The Tribunal, specially constituted with Judicial Members as well as with experts in the field of environment, has a legal obligation to provide for preventive and restorative measures in the interest of the environment.

45. Section 15 of the Act provides power and jurisdiction, independent of Section 14 thereof. Further, Section 14(3) juxtaposed with Section 15(3) of the Act, are separate provisions for filing distinct applications before the Tribunal with distinct periods of limitation, thereby amply demonstrating that jurisdiction of the Tribunal flows from these sections (i.e. Sections 14 and 15 of the Act) independently. The limitation provided in Section 14 is a period of 6 months from the date on which the cause of action first arose and whereas in Section 15 it is 5 years. Therefore, the legislative intent is clear to keep Sections 14 and 15 as self-contained jurisdictions.

46. Further, Section 18 of the Act recognises the right to file applications each under Section 14 as well as Section 15. Therefore, it cannot be argued that Section 14 provides jurisdiction to the Tribunal while Section 15 merely supplements the same with powers. As stated supra the typical nature of the Tribunal, its breadth of powers as provided under the statutory provisions of the Act as well as the scheduled enactments, cumulatively, leave no manner of doubt that the only tenable interpretation to these provisions would be to read the provisions broadly in favour of cloaking the Tribunal with effective authority. An interpretation that is in favour of conferring jurisdiction should be preferred rather than one taking away jurisdiction.

47. Section 33 of the Act provides an overriding effect to the provisions of the Act over anything inconsistent contained in any other law or in any instrument having effect by virtue of law other than this Act. This gives the Tribunal overriding powers over anything inconsistent contained in the KIAD Act, the Planning Act, the Karnataka Municipal Corporations Act, 1976 (the KMC Act); and the Revised Master Plan of Bengaluru, 2015 (RMP). A Central legislation enacted under Entry 13 of Schedule VII List I of the Constitution of India will have the overriding effect over State legislations. The corollary is that the Tribunal while providing for restoration of environment in an area, can specify buffer zones around specific lakes and waterbodies in contradiction with zoning regulations under these statutes or RMP.

48. The second question raised by the appellants is that the petition is barred by time. According to the appellants, environmental clearance was granted to Respondent 9 on 17-2-2012 for which notice was published in the leading newspaper on 12-3-2012 and 14-3-2012. Modified building plan was approved on 30-8-2012, which was followed up to 10-8-2014. Similar events had taken place in regard to the project of Respondent 10 who had been granted environmental clearance on 30-9-2013. The application had to be filed within a period of six months from the date on which cause of action for such dispute has first arisen in terms of Section 14 of the NGT Act. Admittedly, the present application has been filed in March 2014 and according to them, it is much beyond the prescribed period of limitation. Also, there is no application for condonation of delay accompanying the main application. Therefore, the Tribunal will not have jurisdiction to condone the delay.

49. OA No. 222 of 2014 was not an application simpliciter under Section 14 of the Act. It was an application where a specific prayer has been made with reference to Lake Development Authority's (LDA) Report dated 12-6-2013 and the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF) Monitoring Committee Report dated 14-8-2013 for restoration of ecologically sensitive land and for maintaining the sensitive in its natural condition so that the ecological balance of the area is not disturbed. It is clear from the documentary evidence supported by data, that the project proponents have committed breaches and the implementation of the project is bound to have serious adverse impact on the ecology, hydrology and the environment in the catchment area of Bellandur Lake. The environmental degradation as established from the documents would give rise to an independent cause of action. Therefore, this was a petition under Section 15 of the Act and thus it could be filed within 5 years from the date on which the cause for such compensation or relief first arose.

50. In fact, in the original application before the Tribunal there was no mention of the provision under which it was being filed. It is well-settled principle of law that non-mention of or erroneous mention of the provision of law would not be of any relevance, if the court had the requisite jurisdiction to pass an order. It would be a mere irregularity and would not vitiate the application or the judicial order of the Tribunal.

51. Shri R. Venkataramani, learned Senior Counsel, appearing for the appellant in CA No. 5016 of 2016 has submitted that the constructions had not commenced before the grant of environment clearance. The inspection report dated 11-1-2012 of the Chairman of Kspcb observes that “no construction” had commenced on the date of inspection. This report cannot be overlooked on the basis of some dumping of debris which could not be attributed to the appellant. He has pointed out the report of the Committee appointed by the Tribunal in the month of August 2015, wherein it was stated that “it started construction after obtaining clearance”. In this regard he has also taken us through various documents placed on record and submits that there is absolutely no justification in imposing monitoring penalty/compensation without assessment of impact.

52. The Tribunal has pointed out on the basis of the Committee report of August 2015, that the appellant had encroached 3 ac 10 guntas of Bellandur Lake and a boundary wall has been raised around the said land. The Tribunal has also found that the project proponents have violated the Master Plan. They have not obtained the mandatory clearance from the Sensitive Zone Committee constituted by the Government of Karnataka. It is also clear from the materials on record that there are several other violations by the project proponents. The Tribunal has discussed all these issues from para 52 onwards. It is also clear from the materials on record that there is a definite possibility of environment, ecology, lakes and wetland being adversely affected by these projects. That is why, the Tribunal has observed 2015 SCC OnLine NGT 5 as under : (Forward Foundation case 2015 SCC OnLine NGT 5, SCC OnLine NGT para 72)

“72. In light of the above scope of the project and records before the Tribunal and the defaults on the part of the project proponents, the cumulative adverse effects of the activities undertaken by the respondents before us can be summed up as under:

(1) The construction of both the projects had started prior to the grant to environmental clearance.

(2) The EIA Notification of 2006 requires that without grant of environmental clearance, no project can commence its activity. This restriction applies not only to operationalisation of the project but even for the purposes of establishment.

(3) Revenue map images shows multiple Rajakaluves flowing through the project(s) in question. The images further show encroachment on Rajakaluves.

(4) Digital images of the land available on Google satellite images showing encroachment on two major Rajakaluves.

(5) Google satellite images retrieved from Google archives clearly reflect two distinct features. Firstly, change in the wetland area between the period of 13-11-2000 and 23-11-2010. Secondly, it reveals the excavation work carried out by Respondents 9 and 10 commenced prior to obtaining environmental clearance.

(6) Restriction in regard to extraction of groundwater was not strictly complied with as permission of Central Ground Water Authority was not obtained before construction.

(7) The conditions with regard to the natural slopping pattern of the project site to remain unaltered and natural hydrology of the area to be maintained as it is, to ensure natural flow of storm water as well as in relation to lakes and other waterbodies within and/or at the vicinity of the project area to be protected and conserved. The inspection report by MoEF clearly notes that Conditions (xxxix) and (xl) in the environmental clearance of Respondent 9 cannot be complied with as it will necessarily result in some alteration of the natural slopping pattern of the project site and the natural hydrology of the area. It noted that the project area is located in the catchment area of the Bellandur Lake and the project authorities have informed that they will take all precautionary measures to ensure that the lake will not be affected by project activities either during construction or operation phase.”

53. In para 81, the Tribunal has observed as under : (Forward Foundation case 2015 SCC OnLine NGT 5, SCC OnLine NGT para 81)

“81. … Another very important aspect which cannot be overlooked by the Tribunal is with regard to Respondents 9 and 10 carrying on their project activity fully knowing that they were incapable of or it was not possible for them to comply with Conditions (xxxix) and (xl) (or alike conditions) in the order granting the environmental clearance. This has even been noticed by MoEF in its monitoring report dated 14-8-2013. These respondents never applied for variation or amendment of these conditions and continued with their construction activities. This renders these respondents entirely liable for environmental and ecological damage and the restoration and restitution thereof.”

54. In our view, the findings arrived at by the Tribunal are not only based on the documents that were available on record but also on the pleadings that were made by the parties buttressed by the Committee's report and the inspection note of the expert members. Therefore, the directions passed and the penalty imposed by the Tribunal on both project proponents are valid and sustainable and do not suffer from any perversity.

55. We are also of the view that it is impermissible for the appellants to seek a factual review through the methodology of reappreciation of factual matrix by this Court under Section 22 of the NGT Act.

56. Shri R. Venkataramani, learned Senior Counsel has also raised a subsidiary issue relating to res judicata. According to him, Respondents 12 and 13 filed Writ Petitions Nos. 3656-57 of 2013 seeking similar reliefs in a representative capacity. The issues raised therein are same as those canvassed in the application before the Tribunal. The reliefs sought for are essentially the same. Hence, the applications are barred by the principle of res judicata.

57. The Tribunal has answered this issue in paras 47 to 51 of the order. There was no dispute insofar as filing of the writ petitions is concerned. However, the parties are not common nor the issues in application and the writ petitions are directly and substantially the same. After examination of the pleadings, the Tribunal has recorded a finding of fact that there is no commonality of a cause of action or likelihood of a conflict between the judgments. The prayers and the genesis of the respective proceedings are entirely distinct and different in their scope and relief. The issues before the Tribunal would essentially relate to environment ecology and its restoration while the proceedings before the High Court relate to entirely different issues with acquisition of land, its allotment and transfer to the third party. These issues in both the proceedings are neither substantial nor materially identical.

58. After elaborately considering this question, the Tribunal has concluded as under : (Forward Foundation case 2015 SCC OnLine NGT 5, SCC OnLine NGT para 51)

“51. … For these reasons, we find no merit in this contention of Respondents 9 and 10. The purpose of the doctrine of res judicata is to provide finality and conclusiveness to the judicial decisions as well as to avoid multiplicity of litigation. In the present case, the question of reagitating the issues or agitating similar issues in two different proceedings does not arise. The ambit and scope of jurisdiction is clearly decipherable. The jurisdictions of the Hon'ble High Court of Karnataka and this Tribunal are operating in distinct fields and have no commonality insofar as the issues which are raised directly and substantially in these petitions, as well as the reliefs that have been prayed for before the Hon'ble High Court and the Tribunal are concerned. There is no commonality in parties before the Tribunal and the High Court. The “cause of action” in both proceedings is different and distinct. The matters substantially and materially in issue in one proceedings are not the same in the other proceeding. There is hardly any likelihood of conflicting judgments being pronounced by the Tribunal on the one hand and the High Court on the other. Therefore, we are of the considered view that the present applications are neither hit by the principles of res judicata nor constructive res judicata. We also hold that culmination of proceedings before the Tribunal into a final judgment would not offend the principle of “judicial propriety”, because of the writ petitions pending before the Hon'ble High Court of Karnataka.”

59. We do not find any error in the aforesaid conclusion of the Tribunal. We are of the view that the Tribunal was justified in holding that the objections taken by Respondents 9 and 10 do not satisfy the basic ingredients to attract the application of res judicata or constructive res judicata.

60. The State of Karnataka is aggrieved by the following offending portion of the order dated 4-5-2016 2016 SCC OnLine NGT 1409 : (Forward Foundation case 2016 SCC OnLine NGT 1409, SCC OnLine NGT)

“1. In view of our discussion in the main judgment, we are of the considered view that the fixation of distance from waterbodies (lakes and Rajkalewas) suffers from the inbuilt contradiction, legal infirmity and is without any scientific justification. The RMP 2015 provides 50 m from middle of the Rajkalewas as buffer zone in the case of primary Rajkalewas, 25 m in the case of secondary Rajkulewas and 15 m in the tertiary Rajkulewas in contradiction to the 30 m in the case of lake which is certainly much bigger waterbody and its utility as a waterbody/wetland is well known certainly part of wet land. Thus, we direct that the distance in the case of Respondents 9 and 10 from Rajkulewas, waterbodies and wetlands shall be maintained as below—

(i) In the case of lakes, 75 m from the periphery of waterbody to be maintained as green belt and buffer zone for all the existing waterbodies i.e. lakes/wetlands.

(ii) 50 m from the edge of the primary Rajkulewas.

(iii) 35 m from the edges in the case of secondary Rajkulewas.

(iv) 25 m from the edges in the case of tertiary Rajkulewas.

This buffer/green zone would be treated as no construction zone for all intent and purposes. This is absolutely essential for the purposes of sustainable development particularly keeping in mind the ecology and environment of the areas in question.

All the offending constructions raised by Respondents 9 and 10 of any kind including boundary wall shall be demolished which falls within such areas. Wherever necessary dredging operations are required, the same should be carried out to restore the original capacity of the water spread area and/or wetlands. Not only the existing construction would be removed but also none of these respondents — project proponent would be permitted to raise any construction in this zone.

All authorities particularly Lake Development Authority shall carry out this operation in respect of all the waterbodies/lakes of Bangalore.”

(emphasis in original)

61. We have already noticed that Shri Poovayya has no objection to set aside the aforesaid impugned portion of the order insofar as the appellants in all the appeals except the appeals filed by Respondents 9 and 10 are concerned. The aforesaid portion of the order contains not only general directions but also certain directions against Respondents 9 and 10. Therefore, only that portion of the order which does not pertain to Respondents 9 and 10 needs to be quashed.

62. In the light of the above discussion, we pass the following order:

62.1. Civil Appeal No. 5016 of 2016 and Civil Appeals Nos. 8002-03 of 2016 filed by the appellant-Respondents 9 and 10 are hereby dismissed. The impugned judgment and order insofar as the appellant-Respondents 9 and 10 are concerned is sustained.

62.2. All the other appeals are hereby allowed and Direction/Condition (1) in the order dated 4-5-2016 2016 SCC OnLine NGT 1409 is hereby set aside except the direction issued against Respondents 9 and 10.

63. There will be no order as to costs.