NGT Orders DUSIB to Intercept Sewage from JJ Clusters for Treatment

The National Green Tribunal has directed the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) to take immediate, coordinated action to intercept untreated sewage from eight JJ clusters flowing into the Barapula drain. The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) proposed installing modular decentralized sewage treatment plants at single discharge points provided by DUSIB. The Tribunal noted DUSIB's lack of earlier cooperation and ordered expedited action on the proposal, with DJB estimating the plants could be set up within six months. Both agencies must file progress reports before the next hearing scheduled for April 15.

Key Points: NGT Directs DUSIB to Intercept Sewage from Delhi JJ Clusters

  • NGT directs sewage interception
  • Target: 8 JJ Clusters in Delhi
  • Plan for modular treatment plants
  • Coordination between DUSIB and DJB
  • Next hearing on April 15
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NGT directs DUSIB to coordinate with DJB to intercept sewage from JJ Clusters, set up treatment points

NGT directs DUSIB to coordinate with DJB to trap sewage from 8 JJ clusters flowing into Barapula drain and set up treatment points.

"directed DUSIB to undertake immediate action in terms of the relief sought - National Green Tribunal"

New Delhi, February 6

The National Green Tribunal has directed the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board to take immediate and coordinated action to intercept untreated sewage flowing from eight JJ clusters into the Barapula drain and provide single discharge points for treatment.

The direction came from the Principal Bench on February 3 while hearing an Application titled Shamsher Singh vs Govt. of NCT of Delhi & Ors.

The Tribunal allowed an interlocutory application filed by the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) seeking directions to DUSIB to undertake joint action to trap sewage at the source and divert it to sewer networks.

DJB informed the bench that untreated sewage from eight JJ clusters is currently being discharged into the Barapula drain. It proposed installing modular Decentralised Sewage Treatment Plants (DSTPs) at the discharge points, but said the plan requires cooperation from DUSIB.

DUSIB, appearing virtually through counsel, stated that it was not opposing the prayer made by DJB. Taking note of this submission, the Tribunal allowed the application and directed DUSIB to undertake immediate action in terms of the relief sought.

The Tribunal specifically directed DUSIB to ensure physical interception and trapping of sewage from the JJ clusters and to provide single discharge points so that DJB can divert the waste into sewer lines and set up modular treatment units.

The bench also noted that DUSIB had earlier not placed its stand on record despite opportunities and asked it to act expeditiously on DJB's proposal.

DJB informed the Tribunal that the modular DSTPs are likely to be set up within six months. The Tribunal directed both DJB and DUSIB to file status and progress reports at least one week before the next hearing. The matter has been listed for further hearing on April 15.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good move. Decentralised treatment plants are the way forward for dense clusters. But the real issue is DUSIB's lack of proactiveness - the tribunal noted they didn't place their stand on record earlier. This lack of accountability is why our cities are drowning in waste. 🤦‍♂️
A
Aman W
As someone living near one of these clusters, this is a relief. The stench in the summer is unbearable and a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Hope the 'immediate action' ordered doesn't mean another 2 years of files moving between departments.
S
Sarah B
While the directive is positive, it highlights a systemic failure. Why do DJB and DUSIB need a tribunal to tell them to work together on a basic public health issue? This inter-departmental coordination should be routine. The focus should be on the residents of these JJ clusters who deserve proper sanitation.
K
Karthik V
Modular STPs in six months sounds ambitious for Delhi. Let's see if it happens. At least there's a hearing date in April to check progress. Clean Yamuna starts with stopping these drains. 👍
N
Nisha Z
This is a welcome step for both the environment and the people living in those areas. Untreated sewage is a major problem. Hope the implementation is done properly and not just a paper order. Our rivers need this.

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