New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India has summoned the Rajasthan government to clarify its position on ongoing appeals against a directive by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) aimed at cleaning the heavily-polluted Jojari River. The court was sharply critical of the state agency Rajasthan State Industrial Development & Investment Corporation (RIICO) for resisting the clean-up efforts.
Background of the Jojari River cleanup Issue
The Jojari River flows through parts of Rajasthan and has been subjected to serious pollution due to untreated industrial effluents and municipal waste.
In February 2022, the NGT ordered closure of polluting units, implementation of zero liquid discharge norms and remediation of the Jojari (along with the Luni and Bandi rivers), and imposed an environmental compensation of ₹ 2 crore each on RIICO and municipal bodies.
Despite that, appeals were lodged by RIICO and local municipal bodies challenging the order, delaying action. Now the Supreme Court is demanding a clear stand from the state on whether these appeals will be pursued or withdrawn.
What the Supreme Court Said on Jojari River cleanup Issue
- A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta told the Rajasthan government that the continuation of appeals may be unjustified given the serious environmental and health risks. The court asked for a detailed status report within one week.
- The court also asked the Additional Advocate General of Rajasthan, Shiv Mangal Sharma, to obtain instructions on whether the state agencies intend to continue the legal fight or comply with the NGT directive.
Details of the Order
The NGT’s February 2022 order included:
- Enforcement of zero liquid discharge norms, closure of defaulting industries in the Jojari, Luni and Bandi river basins, and appointment of monitoring committees.
- Appeals filed by RIICO, Balotra Municipal Council, Pali Municipal Council and Jodhpur Municipal Corporation have been pending before the Supreme Court.
- The Supreme Court has made clear: “We know there are serious problems in all three rivers – the situation is deeply concerning.”
Significance & Impact of Supreme Court Decision
- The court’s stern message signals that state agencies cannot delay environmental clean-ups simply by staying behind legal appeals.
- For over two million people living around Jojari and the surrounding regions, the pollution poses risk to health, agriculture and water supply.
- Industrial clusters under RIICO oversight will now face greater scrutiny to comply with discharge norms.
- The state government of Rajasthan must now show concrete action rather than continue litigation.
Way Forward
The Supreme Court has set a date—November 17—to next hear the matter, by which the state must submit its status report and clarification.
If the appeal is withdrawn or the state shows compliance, remediation can move ahead. If not, the court may issue stricter directives or monitoring framework.
