The Supreme Court has issued notices to multiple authorities, including the Nagar Palika Parishad Khoda Makanpur, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, Delhi Public Works Department, the Delhi government, the River Rejuvenation Committee for Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi's Irrigation and Flood Control Department. This action followed the receipt of a list from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) identifying agencies responsible for controlling pollution in the Yamuna River.
Background of the Case
The apex court was hearing civil applications filed by Noida and the Delhi Jal Board, challenging the environmental compensation imposed on them by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in 2022. The hearing took place on April 29. The bench also directed amicus curiae K Parameshwar to suggest a nodal authority to coordinate different departments and agencies by the next hearing date on May 13.
Environmental Compensation Imposed
The NGT had imposed an environmental compensation of Rs 150 crore on both agencies for failing to prevent sewage flow into the Kondli irrigation canal, which eventually drains into the Yamuna and contributes to pollution. This penalty was intended to hold the agencies accountable for their negligence in addressing the issue.
Court's Observations and Directions
During the previous hearing on March 19, a bench of Justices Manoj Mishra and Manmohan observed that rivers are national assets and must be protected. The court had directed the CPCB to identify authorities that could be involved in preparing a comprehensive plan to address the pollution problem. The pollution watchdog subsequently submitted a list of such agencies.
The bench noted that several of these agencies are already represented in court and issued notices to the remaining ones. On the suggestion of Additional Solicitor General SV Raju, the court also decided to include the Delhi Irrigation Department. The court emphasized the need for better coordination among the multiple agencies involved to prevent sewage and industrial effluents from entering the Yamuna.
Proposal for a Nodal Agency
Recognizing the complexity of the issue, the court asked the amicus curiae to propose a nodal agency to coordinate efforts across departments. This step aims to streamline actions and ensure effective implementation of measures to clean the river.
Update on Sewage Treatment Plant
Devesh Mishra, Joint Secretary in the Uttar Pradesh Urban Development Department, filed an affidavit stating that encroachments on land earmarked for a sewage treatment plant in Khoda Makanpur have been cleared and construction has begun. The plant, planned in 2024, is designed to treat 66 million liters per day (MLD) of sewage.
Responding to the court's concern about whether the plant would meet future requirements if completed by 2028, Mishra said a study by IIT Delhi found that the plant would be adequate to meet demand until 2041. This assurance addresses concerns about the plant's capacity to handle future population growth and sewage generation.
