ORDER

1. This order will dispose of in O.A. No. 53/2019 and Appeal No.

56/2020 as the same are inter connected.

O.A. No. 53/2019

2. The issue for consideration is the remedial action against illegal mining and stone crushing activities to the detriment of the environment in forest area and in Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) of the Great Indian Bustard Wildlife Sanctuary in District Ahmednagar.

3. Vide order dated 26.09.2019, the Tribunal sought a factual and action taken report from the Collector, Ahmednagar, the Deputy Conservator of Forest, Ahmednagar and the State PCB, after ascertaining facts and taking action in exercise of powers conferred on them as per law. 4. On 28.11.2019, the Tribunal considered the report. The report found that illegal stone crushing activities were taking place in the forest and the notified Eco-Sensitive Zone. The Tribunal directed further action taken report in terms of recovery of Environmental Compensation on ‘Polluter Pays’ principle and fixing of responsibilities of the concerned officers for collusion in defeating the law.

5. The matter was thereafter considered on 02.11.2020 in light of report of the Collector, Ahmednagar dated 28.08.2020 to the effect tha