The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has strongly reprimanded Delhi government agencies for their failure to prevent untreated sewage from flowing into the city's drains, which ultimately pollutes the Yamuna River. The tribunal expressed serious concern over the lack of action despite repeated orders and deadlines.
NGT's Strong Observations
During a recent hearing, the NGT bench, chaired by Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, noted that the discharge of untreated sewage into drains continues unabated. The tribunal said that this amounts to a violation of environmental norms and the right to a clean environment. It directed the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) and other concerned agencies to submit a comprehensive action plan within four weeks.
Previous Orders Ignored
The NGT recalled that it had earlier set a deadline of March 2022 for stopping the discharge of untreated sewage, but the deadline was not met. The tribunal observed that the delay was causing severe damage to the Yamuna ecosystem and posing health risks to residents. It warned that if the situation does not improve, it may impose heavy fines on the responsible officials.
Action Plan Required
The tribunal has asked the DJB to provide a detailed timeline for the completion of sewage treatment plants (STPs) and the laying of sewer lines. It also sought information on the amount of sewage being treated and the capacity of existing STPs. The NGT emphasized that the agencies must work in a coordinated manner to ensure that no untreated sewage enters the drains.
Environmental and Health Impact
Environmental activists have welcomed the NGT's intervention. They pointed out that the Yamuna River, which flows through Delhi, has become highly polluted due to the continuous inflow of untreated sewage and industrial effluents. This has led to the contamination of groundwater and the spread of waterborne diseases. The NGT's strict stance is seen as a crucial step towards restoring the river's health.
The next hearing is scheduled for August 2023, where the agencies are expected to present their progress report. The tribunal has made it clear that it will not tolerate any further delays and will take stringent action against non-compliance.
