Patna High Court Mandates Stringent Action on Pollution Violations
The Patna High Court expressed strong dissatisfaction with the deteriorating air quality and rampant sound pollution in the state capital, issuing directives on Friday for immediate enforcement measures. A single bench of Justice Rajiv Roy, while hearing a contempt petition filed by Surendra Prasad, ordered the Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) to take stringent action against those flouting air and noise pollution control norms.
Court Summons Police Officials Over Enforcement Lapses
In a significant move, the court summoned the station house officers of Rupaspur and Buddha Colony police stations for their failure to provide data on fines imposed for illegal use of amplifiers and DJs beyond permissible limits. The absence of such data, the court observed, indicates a severe lack of enforcement of noise pollution regulations in Patna, highlighting systemic issues in regulatory compliance.
Directives for Compliance with National Guidelines
Justice Roy further directed the BSPCB and state officials to ensure strict adherence to the directives of the National Green Tribunal and the Supreme Court of India. These guidelines explicitly prohibit the burning of garbage, dry leaves, and paper in public places, practices that contribute significantly to air pollution. The court emphasized the urgency of implementing these measures to improve the city's environmental health.
Action Plan Development and Next Steps
During the hearing, BSPCB member secretary Neeraj Narayan was physically present in the courtroom. The court instructed him to convene a meeting with officials, including senior advocate Ajay (the amicus curiae) and state counsel Prashant Pratap, to develop a comprehensive action plan aimed at tackling pollution in Patna. This plan is to be finalized and presented at the next hearing, scheduled for April 10, ensuring a structured approach to addressing the pollution crisis.
The court's intervention underscores the critical need for robust environmental governance in urban areas, with a focus on accountability and proactive measures to safeguard public health and well-being.
