Water Pollution: Concise Overview
Introduction
The Delhi High Court in Court on its Own Motion v. Govt. of NCT of Delhi & Ors issued directives to improve environmental standards and public health in Delhi.
Case Background
- Suo motu PIL initiated in 2022 after a Times of India article highlighted issues like poor rainwater harvesting and traffic congestion during monsoons.
- Concerns: Improper sewage treatment, drainage mismanagement, pollution of Yamuna River, and unauthorized polluting industries.
- Evidence: Photographs of polluted drains and Yamuna River during Chhath Puja.
Court Observations
- STPs in Delhi fail to meet norms, releasing untreated sewage into Yamuna.
- Desilting operations of major drains were inadequate.
- The court found discrepancies in official presentations and data on sewage treatment.
Directions Issued
- STP Monitoring: Install tamper-proof meters to record operational data.
- Data Transparency: Upload real-time operational data on CPCB, DJB, and government websites.
- Discharge Monitoring: Install sensors to measure treated water quality (e.g., BOD, COD, fecal coliform).
- Next hearing: 22nd November 2024.
Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974
- Objective: Prevent and control water pollution; restore water wholesomeness.
- Powers of Boards:
- Central Board: Promote water cleanliness, set standards, advise and assist states.
- State Boards: Plan pollution control programs, inspect and regulate effluent standards.
- Penalty: Heads of government departments are deemed guilty for offences unless proven otherwise.
The Act and court directives aim to address water pollution and ensure sustainable environmental practices.
