Supreme Court Reviews Progress On Yamuna River Pollution Case

The Supreme Court, during a hearing on the suo motu cognizance taken in the case of pollution in the Yamuna river, expressed optimism about resolving the ongoing issues. The Court noted that with the change in the Delhi government, there is hope for improved implementation and resolution of disputes related to the river’s pollution.

The bench pointed out that, previously, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) had been monitoring the water quality issues of the Yamuna and issuing orders regularly.

However, after the Supreme Court took suo motu cognizance of the matter, the NGT ceased its monitoring role and dissolved its committees. The Court suggested that the current change in the Delhi government could provide an opportunity for better coordination and more effective implementation of pollution control measures.

Court Questions Status Of Pending Cases And Future Jurisdiction

During the hearing, the Court questioned Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati regarding whether other related issues concerning the Yamuna River were pending before any other bench.

The Court also raised the possibility of either clubbing all these issues for hearing by the Supreme Court or transferring them back to the NGT for further action. This suggestion indicates the Court’s interest in streamlining the legal proceedings related to the river’s pollution.

Haryana and Delhi Governments Asked To Submit Status Reports

In its last hearing, the Court had directed both the Haryana and Delhi governments to present their respective status reports on the pollution of the Yamuna River.

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The reports were expected to provide an update on the steps taken and challenges faced by the two states in addressing the pollution. The Supreme Court had also highlighted that the case of Yamuna pollution was part of a broader suo motu case, titled “Prevention of Polluted Rivers,” which also covers matters related to coastal areas and remedial measures.

Background On Yamuna River Pollution Issue

The issue of Yamuna river pollution gained significant attention when, on January 13, 2021, the Supreme Court took suo motu cognizance of the matter. The Court emphasized that access to pollution-free water is a fundamental right under India’s constitutional framework, and the welfare state must ensure its provision.

The Delhi Jal Board had filed a petition reporting that toxic industrial waste from Haryana was being discharged into the Yamuna, leading to a substantial increase in the ammonia levels in the river water.

The rising ammonia levels had forced the Delhi Jal Board to halt water supply periodically, as the water became unsafe for consumption.

As the case progresses, the Supreme Court plays a critical role in ensuring the implementation of necessary measures to address the pollution crisis in the Yamuna River and safeguard the water quality for surrounding communities.