NGT Takes Up Plea On Plastic Bottle Use In Delhi School; Seeks Responses

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has taken up a suo motu matter concerning the reported restriction on metal water bottles in a Central Delhi school and the associated health implications of plastic usage among students.

A Bench led by Justice Prakash Shrivastava, along with Expert Member Dr Afroz Ahmad, granted additional time to the concerned authorities and the institution to submit their replies.

The proceedings stem from a media report highlighting objections raised by parents regarding the policy.

Counsel representing the Central Pollution Control Board informed the tribunal that its response had been filed.

The Bench directed the registry to verify and formally record the submission.

The Directorate of Education sought six weeks to file its response, which the tribunal permitted.

The Bench also noted incomplete notice service to the Delhi Pollution Control Committee and ordered corrective action.

The tribunal impleaded Raghubir Singh Junior Modern School as a respondent. The school’s counsel accepted notice and requested time to reply.

Authorities were instructed to update records accordingly. The matter will next be heard on July 8.

Earlier, the tribunal observed that mandating plastic bottles could pose environmental and health risks. It noted that plastics may release microplastics, potentially harming children.

The Bench emphasised that such practices could undermine student well-being.

The case also invokes provisions under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, raising critical questions about regulatory compliance and environmental responsibility in educational institutions.

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