Home / Environment / Court Orders Rajasthan to Tackle Alarming River Pollution Crisis
Court Orders Rajasthan to Tackle Alarming River Pollution Crisis
17 Nov
Summary
- Court finds common effluent treatment plant being bypassed to dump industrial waste
- National Green Tribunal previously fined state ₹2 crore for failing to protect river
- Pollution poses risk to lives of 2 million people living near the Jojari River
In a significant development, the Indian court has taken decisive action against the worsening pollution crisis in the Jojari River, which flows through the Jodhpur, Pali, and Balotra regions of Rajasthan. The court has found that the common effluent treatment plant (CETP) is being bypassed, allowing industrial waste to be directly discharged into the river.
The court's stern response comes after the National Green Tribunal (NGT) previously fined the Rajasthan government ₹2 crore for failing to protect the river. The NGT had also directed the state to implement stringent timelines for zero liquid discharge compliance, close violating industries, and develop remediation plans in collaboration with pollution control boards.
Expressing grave concern, the court stated that the situation on the ground is "alarming" and that the suffering of the 2 million people living near the Jojari River is "unbelievable." The court has accused the state authorities of colluding with the industrial units, further exacerbating the pollution crisis.
The court has reserved the matter for orders to be passed on Friday, indicating that it is determined to take decisive action to address this pressing environmental issue. The state government's appeal against the NGT order is also being heard by the court, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
