Supreme Court Urges Rajasthan to Develop Pollution Control Plan for Rivers

Supreme Court's Directive on River Pollution in Rajasthan

New Delhi, August 4 - The Supreme Court has advised the Rajasthan government to formulate a 20-point action plan to address the pollution issues affecting the Jojaari, Baandi, and Looni rivers. The Jojaari River flows through Jodhpur, the Baandi River runs through Pali, and the Looni River passes near Balotara. Notably, the Baandi and Jojaari rivers converge into the Looni River close to Balotara city.

A bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta emphasized the need for a sustainable solution to this pressing issue. They noted that the entire industrial sector in Pali is situated along the riverbanks, suggesting that the state government may need to consider relocating industries away from these areas in the long term. The court stated, “The state government should present a solution plan.” This hearing is part of a suo motu case concerning pollution in the Jojaari River.

During the proceedings, the court also raised concerns regarding pollution in the Baandi and Looni rivers. The bench engaged in an online discussion with the Chief Secretary of Rajasthan, who acknowledged the seriousness of the situation. He stated, “After consulting with stakeholders, we are prepared to present a comprehensive action plan to the court.” The Chief Secretary assured that all possible measures would be taken to prevent pollution in the state's rivers.

The bench advised the Chief Secretary to form a group of officials to collaborate with a high-level ecological monitoring committee to develop the 20-point action plan. The court expressed, “We want the Chief Secretary to convene a meeting under the high-level committee's chairmanship to prepare this plan.” Furthermore, the bench highlighted the necessity for a permanent monitoring system for all rivers in the state.

The court remarked, “Our aim is not to eliminate jobs provided by these industries, but it cannot come at the expense of the environment.” The bench indicated that an order on this matter would be issued on August 7. Last November, the Supreme Court had established a high-level ecological monitoring committee to identify fundamental flaws in the system, oversee necessary corrective measures to prevent further pollution, and provide long-term recommendations to rectify existing damage.