Supreme Court Issues Stern Warning to Rajasthan Government Over River Pollution

The Supreme Court has taken a strong stance against the Rajasthan government regarding illegal mining and rising pollution levels in the Jojaari, Looney, and Bandi rivers. The court has raised serious concerns about the state's handling of these issues and warned of a potential CBI investigation if immediate action is not taken. It has also accepted recommendations for protecting the river corridor and establishing a treatment plant to address the pollution crisis. The court emphasized that the health and lives of millions cannot be compromised for industrial profits, highlighting the severe environmental impact already observed.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 27, 2026, 15:12 IST

Supreme Court's Stance on Illegal Mining and Pollution

In New Delhi, the Supreme Court has taken a firm stance against illegal mining and escalating industrial pollution in the Jojaari, Looney, and Bandi rivers of western Rajasthan. A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta raised serious concerns regarding the state administration's approach during the hearing and issued a clear warning that if the government fails to take decisive action promptly, it will order a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the matter. The court remarked that state officials have facilitated illegal mining and regularized mining leases despite being aware of regulatory violations, raising questions about their conduct.

Court's Recommendations and Future Actions

During the proceedings, the court accepted recommendations from the 'High-Level Ecosystem Oversight Committee,' which suggested measures to protect the entire designated 'river corridor' and establish a scientifically based 'high flood line.' The bench clarified that the determination of flood zones should not rely solely on dry season flow data but should also consider statistics from monsoon floods occurring every two to three years. Justice Sandeep Mehta criticized the significant discrepancy between the width of the bridge over the Looney River in Balotara and the recorded width of the river's flow, labeling it as 'the height of absurdity' and expressed frustration towards officials misleading the court.

Financial Proposal for Pollution Treatment

The court has directed the state government to present a solid financial proposal for establishing a 'Common Effluent Treatment Plant' based on 'Zero Liquid Discharge' technology during the next hearing scheduled for November 27. The costs will be borne by both the state government and the industries involved. The bench dismissed economic arguments, stating that the lives and health of 20 lakh people cannot be jeopardized for the financial gain of a few industries. Notably, the Jojaari River has been severely affected by toxic chemicals such as sulfur, lead, and cadmium from the textile and chemical industries in Boranada, rendering agricultural land barren for up to 100 to 150 kilometers and leading to a significant health crisis due to contaminated groundwater.