In a scathing critique, the Chhattisgarh High Court lambasted the state government and its agencies for their failure to manage industrial waste effectively in Bilaspur’s Tifra and Sirgitti industrial areas. Acting on a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL), WPPIL No. 108 of 2024, the court highlighted how negligence had led to significant environmental and public health hazards, despite the authorities possessing ample resources and responsibilities to prevent such issues.
Background of the Case
The PIL originated from a news report in the Hindi daily Haribhoomi on December 25, 2024, which detailed the alarming state of waste disposal in Bilaspur. According to the report, industrial waste from nearly 300 units was being indiscriminately dumped in open areas, with livestock feeding on it. Despite Bilaspur being a “Smart City,” no functional infrastructure was in place to handle the waste, and no action had been taken for months following the expiration of a waste disposal contract.
The report also noted that a newly installed Kesda Waste Management Plant remained non-operational due to the authorities’ failure to obtain necessary permissions, further exacerbating the crisis.
Court Proceedings and Observations
The case was heard by a division bench comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Ravindra Kumar Agrawal. The respondents included various state departments, the Chhattisgarh State Industrial Development Corporation (CSIDC), and the Bilaspur Municipal Corporation.
During the hearing, the court expressed dismay at the inaction of the Chhattisgarh Environment Conservation Board (CECB) and other agencies, observing:
“It is very sorry state of affairs that the State and its agencies, despite having all the powers, resources, and capabilities, as well as the CECB, whose sole responsibility is to secure and protect the environment, are not taking timely and effective steps.”
The court questioned why action was initiated only after media coverage and judicial intervention, particularly since the responsible agencies were well aware of the environmental damage caused by their lapses.
Directions Issued
The court directed the Secretary of Urban Administration and Development Department to file a personal affidavit by January 8, 2025. The affidavit must:
1. Explain the delay in addressing the waste disposal crisis.
2. Clarify why the Kesda Waste Management Plant was not operationalized despite being installed.
3. Provide details on interim measures taken to manage waste until the plant becomes functional.
The matter is scheduled for further hearing on January 8, 2025, when the court will evaluate the government’s responses and decide on subsequent steps.
Counsels Involved
– Mr. Raj Kumar Gupta appeared for the State and its departments.
– Mr. Trivikram Nayak represented the CECB.
– Mr. Ashish Tiwari argued on behalf of the Municipal Corporation.
