SC permits TTZ authority to process 400 non-polluting MSME applications
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Supreme Court has allowed the Taj Trapezium Zone Authority to process around 400 pending applications for non-polluting MSMEs in the ecologically sensitive area around the Taj Mahal. This decision balances environmental protection with economic development, as key studies are still pending.
Background
The Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ) is a 10,400 sq km area around the Taj Mahal where the Supreme Court has imposed stringent restrictions since 1996 to protect the monument from pollution. The court has been monitoring industrial activity in the region.
Key facts
Supreme Court permitted TTZ Authority to process ~400 pending applications for non-polluting MSMEs.
Every proposal must be scrutinised by experts from Central Empowered Committee (CEC) and NEERI.
If any objection arises, the application cannot be accepted without leave of the Supreme Court.
Key studies pending: Vision Document for TTZ, cumulative impact assessment, and NEERI's final report on definition of non-polluting industries.
The court directed that pendency of these studies should not stall processing of already received applications.
The bench comprised CJI Surya Kant, Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana.
Attorney General and ASG submitted that applications for non-polluting MSMEs like flour mills may be considered.
The court emphasised strict adherence to the precautionary principle with expert advice and supervision.
Prelims pointers
- Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ): 10,400 sq km area around Taj Mahal.
- Central Empowered Committee (CEC): Supreme Court-appointed body.
- National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI): under CSIR.
- Precautionary principle: environmental law principle.
- MSME: Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.
- Supreme Court bench: CJI Surya Kant, Justices Joymalya Bagchi, V Mohana.
Mains angles
- GS2: Judiciary - Supreme Court's role in environmental protection and balancing development.
- GS3: Environment - Conservation of Taj Mahal, pollution control in TTZ.
- GS3: Economy - MSME development in ecologically sensitive zones.
- GS2: Polity - Role of expert committees (CEC, NEERI) in judicial decisions.