The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken significant action regarding illegal activities along the Mahanadi river in Cuttack, Odisha. On April 2, the NGT ordered the formation of a joint committee to investigate unauthorized constructions in the river's catchment areas, which are reportedly increasing flood vulnerability and posing environmental risks. The decision came after a petition by Shailesh Sahoo, which the NGT treated as a suo motu case. The tribunal expressed displeasure over the lack of meaningful action and the failure of Odisha officials to submit required affidavits despite previous directives. The newly formed committee will include representatives from the Odisha government and the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. They are tasked with verifying the situation and recommending remedial measures, with a report due within 15 days. The next hearing for this case is set for April 20.