CGWA observes strict norms in clearing NOCs; 20,000 applications put on hold

More than 20,000 applications for both fresh NOCs and renewals are reportedly pending before the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), as it has been following strict norms over groundwater concerns.

New Delhi:The Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) has cracked the whip against firms coming for No Objection Certificates(NOCs) from regions where groundwater has been over-exploited.

According to sources, due to the stringent action of the Union Government, more than 20,000 applications are currently pending before the CGWA.

After the National Green Tribunal's order against several firms for not complying with the rules for preserving groundwater levels, the CGWA itself has become active in fixing the issue.

According to sources, the Jal Shakti Ministry under which the CGWA falls, is being very cautious in handing out NOCs to business establishments coming from water-deficient and over-exploited regions.

"We have around 3,880 groundwater assessment blocks in the country. About 35 per cent of the total blocks are witnessing severe, critical and semi-critical exploitation of water. So, we are considering the background, water preservation infrastructure for new firms. While the old industrial firms are coming for renewal, we review their track records. If we learn that a particular business firm has indulged in groundwater exploitation beyond the allowed levels, we halt their applications," an officer with CGWA said.

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He further added that NGT's January 2020 order led to them giving new and renew NOCs on the basis of a study of groundwater availability and periodical report that replenishment had resulted in improvement.

Speaking to ETV Bharat, an entrepreneur said that about 20,000 applications for fresh NOCs and renewals have been put on hold.

Meanwhile, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Federation Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FICCI) have written to Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat to release NOCs for companies as soon as possible.

"We welcome the CWGA's move to preserve groundwater. We are ready to cooperate with the Government. Industry adheres the directions of NGT. However, holding our applications for a prolonged time will result in the closure of our business. It will also lead to job losses. So we expect the Government to clear our applications in this uncertain period," the CII letter read. A similar letter was also sent to the NITI AYOG.

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