Pollution – Supreme Court Report Highlights Severe River Contamination in Jodhpur Region
Pollution – Three important rivers flowing through Rajasthan’s Jodhpur division have suffered severe environmental damage due to unchecked industrial pollution, according to a detailed report submitted to the Supreme Court. The investigation states that contamination in the Bandi, Luni and Jojri rivers has become so serious that farmers in nearby areas are now able to protect only a small fraction of their crops. The findings suggest that nearly 95 percent of agricultural output in affected zones is under threat because polluted water has entered fields and irrigation sources.
Supreme Court Orders Investigation into River Pollution
The report was prepared by a High-Level Ecosystem Oversight Committee formed under the direction of the Supreme Court. The panel was tasked with assessing the environmental condition of the three rivers after the court took suo motu notice of the issue in November 2025. The bench had expressed concern over rising complaints from local residents and farmers about industrial waste being discharged into water bodies across the region.
The committee’s work focused on examining pollution sources and evaluating the environmental damage in districts such as Jodhpur, Pali and Balotra. The court reviewed the committee’s interim report, which runs over 200 pages and documents widespread contamination caused largely by industrial discharge.
Farmers Raise Concerns Over Declining Agricultural Output
Farmers living near these rivers have been raising alarms for several years about the deteriorating quality of water flowing through their lands. Local agricultural communities have repeatedly called for urgent steps to restore the Jojri River and to curb pollution in other major waterways of the Jodhpur division.
Despite those appeals, little progress was made for a long period. When the issue remained unresolved, the Supreme Court intervened last year and criticized the Rajasthan government for what it described as ineffective handling of the environmental crisis.
Industrial Wastewater Continues to Flow into Rivers
During earlier hearings, the court pointed out that polluted wastewater from industries was still entering rivers even though regulations already exist to prevent such discharge. Judges noted that this ongoing violation of environmental rules poses serious risks not only to the ecosystem but also to public health.
The committee’s investigation confirmed these concerns. It found that untreated industrial waste continues to flow into the rivers, gradually turning natural water streams into channels carrying toxic liquid waste.
Jojri River Facing Severe Toxic Contamination
Particular concern was raised about the condition of the Jojri River, a seasonal tributary of the Luni River stretching approximately 83 kilometers. According to the report, this river is receiving large quantities of chemically contaminated water from nearby industrial units.
The discharge contains acidic and polluted wastewater that has significantly damaged agricultural land in several villages within Luni tehsil. Fields that once supported crops are now becoming infertile, forcing many farmers to struggle with declining yields.
The contamination is also affecting drinking water sources and irrigation systems used by communities in Jodhpur, Pali and Balotra. The report estimates that nearly two million residents in these districts may be impacted by the deteriorating water quality.
Court Criticizes Delayed Government Response
While reviewing the findings, the Supreme Court expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as a slow and ineffective response from state authorities. The court said delays in taking corrective action had led to considerable damage to both public resources and local infrastructure.
The committee also pointed out that the state government had not provided adequate logistical support or manpower during the investigation process, which created difficulties in conducting field assessments.
Economic Impact and Regulatory Measures
The report also referred to earlier research on the issue. A study conducted in 2010 by the National Productivity Council had already warned about the financial losses caused by industrial pollution in the region. According to that study, contamination linked to textile industries in Pali and the former Barmer district resulted in economic losses estimated at more than Rs 175 crore.
In response to the current situation, the oversight committee issued directions during a meeting held on January 31, 2026. One of the key recommendations was a complete ban on transporting industrial waste through tanker vehicles, a practice believed to contribute to illegal dumping.
Pollution Control Board Takes Action Against Violators
The report also detailed enforcement actions taken by the Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board in recent months. Between September 2025 and January 2026, authorities shut down 97 industrial units found violating environmental norms. Operating permissions for 61 factories were also revoked.
In addition, environmental compensation totaling Rs 1,33,11,950 was imposed on industries responsible for polluting the rivers. Officials say these measures are part of a broader effort to ensure compliance with environmental standards and prevent further contamination of water resources in the region.