Panel hears experts on report about environment laws
New Delhi, Jan 10 A parliamentary panel Friday heard views of experts and NGOs on the report of a panel on various laws relating to environment amid reports that there was “disquiet” on some of its recommendations.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee (PSC) on Science and Technology, Environment and Forest met eight organisations to consider their views on the T.S.R. Subramanian panel report which has been submitted to the government.
The panel took note of the views of experts and environment groups in view of apprehensions that some laws could be weakened.
Ashawni Kumar, chairman of the standing committee, said there has been “disquiet” about some recommendations in the media.
He said the panel will hold extensive consultations and will take views of other organisations.
“The MPs are entitled to apprise themselves (of views of) opponents and proponents,” he said.
He did not divulge view of the experts who met the parliamentary panel.
Kumar said that the committee had taken cognisance of a media report that pollution was leading to discolouration of Taj Mahal.
He said the panel will meet officials of Uttar Pradesh Pollution Board, environment ministry and other agencies responsible for conservation of the historic monument.
The panel will also visit Bhabha Atomic Research Centre in Mumbai Jan 31 and meet experts to assess the progress in generation of civil nuclear energy.
The committee will also be visiting some big cities to assess the “impact of rapid and unplanned urbanisation on environment.”
