NGT directs strict enforcement of revised SOP for setting up fuel depots in Sikkim

GANGTOK, : The National Green Tribunal (NGT) eastern zone bench Kolkata has directed the Sikkim authorities to strictly enforce the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) issued by the Sikkim government for establishing fuel depots and petrol pumps in the State.

As per the Sikkim government’s SOP issued on January 9, 2025, it is stipulated that a petrol, diesel or kerosene depot shall maintain a buffer zone of at least 250-300 m from residential areas, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, historical structures, and places of worships. No development / construction shall be taken within this buffer zone.

The SOP was issued by the Sikkim State Pollution Control Board in the light of SOP issued by the Central Pollution Control Board accepting the MB Lal Committee recommendations on safety aspects of a fuel depot.

The National Green Tribunal was responding to a petition filed by Majhitar resident YB Thapa against a depot being constructed by the Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) of 1065 KL (10,65,000 litres) capacity flouting all environmental norms and procedure at a plot adjacent to his plot.

In the meantime, it has also come to light that there exists a Siting Criteria for petrol pumps and retail outlets. As per the notification dated 07/01/2020 laid down by the Central Pollution Control Board, it is worthy to note that it is mandatory to maintain a minimum distance of 50 meters from any human habitation, which means, any residential areas, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, historical structures and places of worship.

Environmental clearances are also a must prior to starting any form of construction for petrol pumps and retail outlets all over the country. Interestingly no such criteria (SOP) existed for petrol/diesel depots despite the grave consequences to the environment, life and property it poses.

The present execution application is disposed of with a direction to the State respondents to strictly enforce the SOP issued by the Sikkim government, directed the National Green Tribunal bench.

The applicant was represented by advocates Akshar Bhatt and Sajal Sharma. 

Pic: A file photo of the proposed fuel depot at Majhitar near Rangpo.