Order of the National Green Tribunal regarding pollution by industries in Jodhpur city along Jojari river, Rajasthan, 17/05/2019
Order of the National Green Tribunal in the matter of Gram Panchayat ARABA Vs State of Rajasthan & Others dated 17/05/2019 regarding pollution by industries in Jodhpur city along Jojari river. It has come to the notice of the NGT that inspite of repeated directions, the CETP have not treated or fully treating the effluent and the same is discharged in river/storm water drain/open places. This practice has been continued by the industries and the treatment plants continuously except for a period of short intervals. It is only when either the matter is listed before the Tribunal and directions are passed or a commissioner is appointed for site inspection that effluent is treated and the method provided under the relevant law is followed.
In view of the above situation, the Tribunal directs the Director General of Police, Rajasthan to constitute a special task force to be headed by a senior officer not less than the rank of an Additional Superintendent of Police. The Special Task Force shall work round the clock, in three shifts and keep vigil over discharge of industrial effluent and prevent the same from being disposed in a river, nallah, storm water drain, any open space, land belonging to public or Panchayat, except the one permitted under consent order and appropriate criminal prosecution shall be initiated against persons found discharging effluent illegally. The Task Force shall also see that no unit is set up or is operating in an area which is not earmarked as industrial area and is expected to furnish daily report to ADG, Traffic, Rajasthan Police, who shall forward the same to the Tribunal every month.