Surat - December 5, 2023: A devastating fire at Ather Industries in Surat has claimed the lives of eight employees, sparking outrage and prompting action from the National Green Tribunal (NGT).
Taking suo motu cognizance of the tragedy, the NGT has registered a case and issued notices to the Collector and the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB). Both entities have been ordered to appear at a hearing scheduled for December 8th. Additionally, the NGT has announced the formation of a committee to investigate the compensation provided by the court and verify whether the company has paid the promised amount.
Apart from the NGT's intervention, two Surat-based organizations have also filed separate cases seeking justice for the victims and their families.
Meanwhile, the investigation into the cause of the fire continues. Six days after the incident, a team from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) arrived at Ather Industries to collect samples. The team completed half of the work on their first visit and is expected to return for further sample collection. Police will file a complaint based on the final forensic report.
The tragedy at Ather Industries has left the community shaken and demanding accountability. The ongoing investigations and legal actions aim to ensure that justice is served for the victims and their families, and that such a disaster is never repeated.
