The Supreme Court of India addressed the severe contamination of the Jojari, Bandi, and Luni rivers in Rajasthan, affecting approximately two million people. The court highlighted a systemic failure in regulatory vigilance and administrative negligence spanning nearly two decades, requiring immediate judicial intervention.
Issues Highlighted by the Supreme Court
- Environmental and Constitutional Concerns:
- The pollution issue threatens the right to life, dignity, health, and ecological balance, as guaranteed by the Indian Constitution.
- Environmental degradation has reached a level that necessitates urgent judicial redress.
- Geographical Impact:
- The Jojari river affects Jodhpur, the Bandi flows through Pali, and the Luni passes through Balotra, merging near Balotra city.
Judicial and Administrative Actions
- Formation of Oversight Committee:
- A retired Rajasthan High Court judge, will chair a high-level ecosystem oversight committee.
- Status Report and Measures Undertaken:
- The Rajasthan state submitted a status report detailing actions taken in response to the crisis.
- The measures, although significant, were initiated only after judicial intervention and were not proactive.
Supreme Court's Directions
- The committee is tasked with preparing a scientifically grounded restoration blueprint.
- A comprehensive mapping of discharge points into the rivers is required.
- The interim stay on the National Green Tribunal's order (February 2022) regarding environmental compensation is lifted, except for certain remarks against state authorities and a Rs. two crore penalty.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court emphasized the urgent need for Rajasthan to fulfill its constitutional duties to ensure ecological balance and public health. The case is scheduled for further review on February 27, when the first status report from the committee will be received.
