During the hearing on the increasing pollution in Jojri, Luni and Bandi rivers, the state government was strongly reprimanded in the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court said that the state is in a very poor position in controlling pollution caused by industries, which affects about 20 lakh people in Jodhpur, Pali and Balotra areas.
Additional Advocate General Shiv Mangal Sharma, appearing for the state, presented a detailed status report before the division bench of Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta. The division bench took the report on record and listed the matter for November 21, saying that considering the gravity of the crisis, even stricter directions than the orders issued by the National Green Tribunal may be required. The bench said industrial effluents are being discharged directly into rivers and most of the CETPs have been bypassed.
the situation is worsening
The court questioned how the municipal bodies and RIICO can be given relief from the fine imposed by the NGT when the situation is worsening. Sharma urged the court to temporarily stay the environmental compensation penalty of ₹2 crore and adverse observations imposed by the NGT so that the state can present its compliance progress before the court. He said that the government has now decided to implement all the positive operational directions of the NGT and will take necessary steps to control pollution.
Paper promises will not suffice
On the state’s stand, the bench said that it is now necessary to take real action on the ground rather than mere paper assurances. The court will now issue a detailed order on this PIL on November 21. During the hearing, there were indications that the court may issue strict guidelines.
