The Supreme Court has expressed serious concerns regarding illegal mining along the Jojari-Bandi-Luni river system in Rajasthan. The court indicated that the situation may warrant a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry, as reported by the Press Trust of India. The bench, comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta, made these observations during a hearing on Monday, which was initiated by the court itself due to contamination issues in the Jojari river.

During the proceedings, the court highlighted the environmental degradation caused by alleged illegal mining activities. It pointed out that the pollution levels in the Jojari, Bandi, and Luni rivers have reached alarming proportions. The Jojari river flows through Jodhpur, while the Bandi river traverses Pali, and the Luni river runs through Balotra, where the Bandi and Jojari rivers converge.

The bench noted that the state authorities appeared to be neglecting their responsibilities, allowing the river system to deteriorate in plain sight. The court warned that if the state government does not take effective corrective measures, the officials involved could face repercussions.

Issues of Pollution and Regulatory Compliance

In addition to illegal mining, the court raised concerns about the regularisation of mining leases and the operation of industries without the necessary no-objection certificates. The bench remarked that the plight of the local population, estimated at 20 lakh, should not be disregarded in favour of economic interests.

The court underscored that the health and well-being of these residents cannot be sacrificed for the sake of a few industries. The Supreme Court has mandated the Rajasthan government to submit a comprehensive proposal aimed at restoring the river system. This proposal should also address the various issues raised during the hearing, including pollution and illegal mining activities.

The court has scheduled the next hearing for November 27, when it expects to review the state’s response and proposed actions. In a previous directive issued in August, the Supreme Court instructed the Rajasthan government to establish an Integrated Coordination Group led by the chief secretary.

This group is tasked with addressing the contamination of the three rivers and is required to engage in detailed consultations with a high-level ecosystem oversight committee. The aim is to develop a coordinated and time-sensitive plan to implement necessary corrective measures.

Previous Actions and Future Directions

The oversight committee was formed by the Supreme Court in November last year, with the objective of identifying the primary issues affecting the river system. It is responsible for supervising measures to prevent further pollution and for proposing long-term strategies to reverse the environmental damage already inflicted.

The latest directives from the Supreme Court require the Rajasthan government to present a detailed restoration proposal. This proposal is expected to tackle not only the alleged illegal mining but also the unauthorised industrial operations contributing to pollution in the Jojari-Bandi-Luni river system.

The court’s emphasis on environmental protection and regulatory compliance reflects a growing awareness of the need for sustainable practices in resource management. The upcoming hearing on November 27 will be crucial in determining the next steps for the state government and its efforts to address these pressing environmental concerns.

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