Supreme Court Bans Construction Within 100 Metres of Rajasthan's Jojari River

The Supreme Court has barred construction and development activities within 100 metres of the edge of Rajasthan's Jojari River, imposing interim safeguards while authorities conduct a scientific exercise to determine the river's high flood line and ecological buffer zones.

The court also prohibited hazardous industries and activities capable of causing pollution or environmental damage within 500 metres on either side of the existing flood line, wherever it has been identified, or along the river's present flow path.

Supreme Court Orders 100-Metre No-Construction Zone

A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta issued the directions while hearing a suo motu case related to contamination in the Jojari River.

The court noted the serious ecological degradation and widespread damage to the riverine ecosystem, saying that a definite and measurable interim protection zone was necessary until scientific authorities complete the process of identifying and demarcating the high flood line and ecological buffer areas.

Under the interim order, no construction or development activity of any kind will be permitted within 100 metres from the edge of the river.

500-Metre Restriction on Hazardous Activities

The Supreme Court also imposed an additional safeguard against industrial pollution.

No hazardous industry or activity with the potential to cause pollution, contamination or other environmental damage will be permitted within 500 metres on either side of the existing flood line where it has already been identified.

In areas where the flood line has not yet been marked, the restriction will apply in relation to the river's present flow path until the scientific exercise is completed.

The detailed order from the court is awaited.

Jojari, Bandi and Luni Rivers Under Court Scrutiny

The Jojari River has been at the centre of concerns over severe contamination and environmental degradation in Rajasthan. The Supreme Court had previously also raised concerns regarding pollution affecting the Bandi and Luni rivers.

On August 7, the court directed the Rajasthan government to establish an Integrated Coordination Group headed by the Chief Secretary to address contamination in all three rivers.

The Jojari flows through Jodhpur, while the Bandi passes through Pali. Both rivers eventually join the Luni near Balotra.

What Happens Next?

The restrictions are interim measures and will remain important while authorities determine the high flood line and scientifically establish ecological buffer zones around the river.

The Supreme Court has listed the matter for its next hearing on September 22.

The order could have significant implications for construction, industrial activity and environmental regulation in areas surrounding the Jojari River as authorities work to address long-standing concerns over pollution and ecological damage.