SC Orders Status Report From Delhi and Haryana Govts On Yamuna Pollution

The Supreme Court has recently ordered the Delhi and Haryana governments to file a status report on pollution of the Yamuna River.

A bench comprising Justices AS Bopanna and Prashant Kumar Mishra has listed the issue for further deliberation on October 3.

The court stated in it’s copy of order that, “In that view, we deem it appropriate to first hear the issue relating to the pollution of the Yamuna River. In that regard, the status report shall separately be filed by the State of Haryana as also by the State of Delhi.”

The court’s directive ensued subsequent to a comprehensive analysis of arguments presented by the Amicus Curiae, alongside legal representatives representing the involved parties.

The court was apprised of the matters encompassing the pollution of the Yamuna River, as well as concerns pertaining to coastal regions and the implementation of remedial measures.

It was highlighted that it would be appropriate to bifurcate and address these issues separately to facilitate the effective implementation of corrective measures.

Additionally, the court emphasized that, while the topic of coastal regions will be examined individually in forthcoming hearings, a specified date shall be established for such proceedings, and pertinent authorities are mandated to present a progress report in this regard.

The apex court had undertaken suo moto cognizance concerning the “remediation of polluted rivers,” and duly noted that the discharge of non-treated or partially treated municipal waste and effluents from various states and cities constituted a significant contributor to water pollution.

The suo moto cognizance was taken by the overarching significance of the matter, as it significantly impacts not only the general public but also the ecosystem, including marine life.

Earlier the Bench stated in its order, “Deterioration of quality of fresh water has a direct correlation with the quality of public health. It is an acknowledged fact that pollution of water supplies by sewage effluents has been and still is a major cause of variety of diseases and discomforts.”