NGT Seeks Explanation From SACON Over ₹13.09 Crore Flamingo Study Costs
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History (SACON) to appear as a respondent in the ongoing flamingo death case. The tribunal wants to understand SACON's proposed three-year study and its estimated cost of approximately ₹13.09 crore to assess the impact of streetlights on flamingo habitats near DPS Lake wetland.
In April 2026, the NGT had ordered the City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) to commission the study through SACON. According to CIDCO's affidavit, SACON initially proposed a five-year study at an estimated cost of ₹23.32 crore. After CIDCO requested a reduction in duration and expenditure, SACON revised its proposal to three years at approximately ₹13.09 crore.
The tribunal noted a significant discrepancy in costs. CIDCO negotiated with other expert agencies, with one proposing to complete the study within six months at ₹1.2 crore. Taking note of the substantial differences in timelines and costs, the NGT directed its registry to implead SACON as respondent and seek clarification on the study methodology and pricing.
