Background
The Supreme Court of India has taken a significant step towards protecting the Jojari River in Rajasthan by imposing environmental safeguards against construction and industrial pollution.
Key Facts
About Jojari River
- Type: Seasonal river
- Origin: Near Pandalu (Poondloo) village in Nagaur district, Rajasthan
- Course: Flows through Jodhpur before joining the Luni River
- Confluence: Joins Luni River near Khejarla Khurd
- Significance: Only major right-bank tributary of the Luni River that does not originate in the Aravalli Range
Supreme Court Directions
Interim Environmental Safeguards:
- 100-metre restriction: No construction or development activity within 100 metres from the edge of the river
- 500-metre buffer zone: Prohibition on establishment of any hazardous industry or activity capable of causing pollution within 500 metres on either side of:
- The existing flood line, OR
- The river's present flow path
Institutional Mechanism:
- Establishment of an Integrated Coordination Group (ICG)
- Headed by the Chief Secretary of Rajasthan
- Tasked with addressing contamination in Jojari, Bandi, and Luni rivers
- Earlier direction: State Government to prepare a 20-point plan to tackle pollution in these rivers
Pollution Concerns
- Pali industrial area is located along the riverbank
- Court suggested considering relocation of industries away from the river in the long term
- These restrictions serve as interim, definite, and measurable protection while scientific studies determine:
- High flood line
- Ecological buffer zones
Significance
- Balances industrial activity with environmental protection
- Addresses vulnerability of river ecosystems near industrial zones
- Establishes precedent for river protection through judicial intervention
- Recognises the need for scientific determination of flood lines and ecological zones