Court orders immediate compliance from authorities over toxic waste discharge in Jodhpur
In a significant development, the Rajasthan High Court has issued directives to the state authorities to take immediate action against the unchecked pollution caused by illegal dyeing and printing units in Jodhpur. The Division Bench, comprising Justices Vinit Kumar Mathur and Chandra Shekhar Sharma, emphasized the urgency of addressing the environmental hazards posed by the discharge of poisonous water from these units.
The Public Interest Litigation (PIL), filed by petitioner Shailendra Bhandari, raised grave concerns over the environmental impact of these operations, which are reportedly functioning illegally within residential areas. The petitioner highlighted the urgent need for intervention to prevent further degradation of the city's environment due to the toxic waste released by these units.
The court, recognizing the severity of the issue, has impleaded the Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board as a party to the case. In its order dated July 7, 2026, the court criticized the inaction of the authorities despite earlier directives contained in their own letters and orders dated October 24 and October 28, 2025. The court expressed disappointment over the lack of response and action from the state authorities, despite being sensitized to the seriousness of the pollution problem.
The Rajasthan High Court has mandated the respondent authorities to act immediately on the directives previously issued in their letters and orders and to report compliance by July 14, 2026. The court has underscored the need for accountability and has sought explanations from the authorities regarding their inaction.
This judgment comes as a crucial intervention in the ongoing battle against environmental pollution in Rajasthan, particularly in urban areas like Jodhpur where industrial activities often encroach upon residential zones, leading to significant health and ecological risks. The court's insistence on swift compliance is expected to pave the way for more stringent enforcement of environmental regulations, thereby safeguarding public health and the environment.
Bottom line:-
Public Interest Litigation (PIL) addressing pollution caused by illegal dyeing and printing units in Jodhpur - Directions issued to respondent authorities to take immediate action as per their own letters/orders and report compliance to the court.
Statutory provision(s):
- Environmental Law provisions related to pollution control
- Public Interest Litigation (PIL) guidelines
- Relevant directives from Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board
Shailendra Bhandari v. State of Rajasthan, (Rajasthan)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2937612
