Supreme Court Intervenes to Save Jojari River from Environmental Catastrophe
Supreme Court issues comprehensive directives to combat pollution and restore Rajasthan's endangered rivers
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of India has taken suo moto cognizance of the alarming environmental degradation affecting Jojari River and other rivers in Rajasthan. The decision follows a documentary titled "2 Million Lives at Risk | India's Deadliest River | Marudhara | Jojari | Rajasthan," which highlighted the dire situation facing the river due to industrial and sewage pollution. The apex court's intervention comes after numerous petitions and appeals concerning the pollution of rivers in Rajasthan, specifically targeting the rivers Jojari, Bandi, and Luni.
The Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, has issued comprehensive directives aimed at addressing the pollution crisis. The court has mandated strict compliance with environmental laws, relocation of industries, proper sewage management, and the implementation of a Zero Liquid Discharge Policy. The court has emphasized the 'Polluter's Pay' principle, warning violators of severe consequences including industry closure, environmental compensation, and prosecution.
The judgment detailed the findings of monitoring committees tasked with overseeing pollution levels and compliance. Recommendations include the relocation of industries, full utilization of Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs), and stringent monitoring of effluent discharge. Municipal bodies have been instructed to ensure no mixing of treated water with untreated sewage and to supervise all drains and manholes to prevent effluent entry. The Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board (RSPCB) has been given ultimate responsibility for ensuring adherence to these directives.
The Supreme Court has directed the clubbing of various statutory appeals under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, with the suo moto writ petition for an expedited resolution. These appeals, which include cases filed by RIICO and Municipal Councils of Pali, Jodhpur, and Balotra, will be heard together to facilitate comprehensive remedial action.
The court's order mandates a rigorous monitoring framework, including the establishment of committees comprising representatives from RSPCB, Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), and District Magistrates. These committees will undertake regular surveys, prepare exhaustive lists of polluting industries, and enforce remedial measures, including environmental compensation and prosecution against violators.
Statutory provisions: National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973.
The judgment underscores the importance of collaborative effort among government departments, local bodies, and industries to mitigate the environmental damage and restore the ecological balance in the affected regions. With the Supreme Court's proactive stance, Rajasthan's rivers may soon witness significant improvement in water quality, safeguarding the health and livelihoods of millions dependent on these vital water sources.
