The National Green Tribunal’s Bhopal Central Zone Bench has directed the Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board to submit a detailed action taken report regarding groundwater contamination in the RIICO Industrial Area in Sotanala, Alwar. The directive follows concerns raised in a case involving pesticide residues discharged by industries in the region.
The Tribunal considered a scientific study by the National Institute of Hydrology, which revealed severe groundwater contamination in the RIICO industrial areas of Keshwana and Sotanala. The report also warned of potential spread towards Behror, posing environmental and health risks.
The deteriorating groundwater quality could have adverse effects on human health, as per the study’s findings. Urgent measures such as groundwater remediation and rainwater harvesting systems are recommended for restoring groundwater quality.
The Tribunal instructed the Pollution Control Board to identify responsible industries, report on actions taken, and implement necessary measures based on the study’s recommendations. The case is scheduled for further hearing on August 19.
