India, Sept. 9 -- The National Green Tribunal (NGT), Western Zone Bench, Pune, has imposed a penalty of Rs.30 lakh on Prakash Porwal, a Lonavla-based builder, for repeatedly encroaching on the Indrayani riverbed. Despite previous orders from the Tribunal, Porwal continued illegal earth-filling and construction activities.

The case was filed by applicant Suresh Pujari, who alleged illegal dumping of soil, construction of an approach road, retaining walls, gates, and even a temporary footbridge on Survey No. 24 in Bhushi village, Maval taluka. Despite interventions from the Lonavla Municipal Council (LMC) and past orders from the NGT, Porwal continued to encroach upon the riverbank.

During hearings, Porwal defended his actions, claiming t...