Supreme Court Orders New Bodies to Tackle River Pollution
The Supreme Court has issued directions in the Rajasthan Water Pollution Case. The Court ordered two Integrated Coordination Groups to tackle industrial contamination in Rajasthan’s water bodies.
The Bench also ordered the creation of a dedicated river restoration body. Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta passed the directions while hearing a suo motu case.
The proceedings focus on severe industrial pollution in Rajasthan. The Jojari River remains a key concern in the case.
Justice Sandeep Mehta said the Bench had issued specific directions. The formal court order records the functions of the new bodies.
Documentary Prompted Supreme Court’s Suo Motu Action
The Supreme Court took up the matter suo motu after a documentary highlighted the pollution crisis.
The documentary, “2 Million Lives at Risk | India’s Deadliest River | Jojari, Rajasthan,” drew attention to industrial pollution.
It highlighted the discharge of industrial waste into water bodies. The documentary also showed environmental damage across Jodhpur, Pali and Barmer districts.
The Court had earlier stepped in to strengthen regulatory action. It also created oversight mechanisms to address toxic industrial discharge.
As part of the ongoing proceedings, the Bench directed officials to share its latest order. The order will go to Rajasthan Additional Advocate General Shiv Mangal Sharma.
The Court also directed that the order reach the High-Powered Committee. The committee oversees the cleanup of polluted water bodies across Rajasthan.
New Groups Must Prepare a Long-Term Action Plan
The two Integrated Coordination Groups will work with the High-Powered Committee. Together, they must develop a detailed action plan.
The plan will focus on reducing industrial pollution. It will also address the restoration of affected rivers and other water bodies.
The Supreme Court wants the groups to create a long-term solution. Their plan must cover pollution control and ecosystem restoration.
The stakeholders must submit the completed plan before the next hearing. The Court has listed the matter for September 22, 2026.
The Rajasthan Water Pollution Case will therefore remain under the Supreme Court’s monitoring. The next hearing will assess the progress of the coordination groups and the proposed restoration measures.
