The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on September 11, 2019, has directed the Delhi Jal Board (DJB), Central Pollution Control Board (CBCB) and Ministry of Jal Shakti to install Rainwater Harvesting Systems (RWH) in view of rapid depletion of ground water.
Proceedings in the matter were initiated suo moto by the Tribunal, based on a news item dated 19 June 2015 in the Hindustan Times highlighting the problem of water quality on account of contamination of ground water.
Tribunal noted the need for comprehensive ground water management, plan covering Rain Water Harvesting (RWH) systems, use of treated water for ground water recharge and regulation of extraction of ground water, apart from revival and rejuvenation of water bodies. Subsequently, the NGT Principal Bench decided to constitute an independent Monitoring Committee, to be headed by Justice S.P. Garg (former Judge of Delhi High Court), to prepare a time bound action plan to deal with the problem.
Accordingly, the Committee gave its first report on 18th February 2019 and dealt with the issue of revival and rejuvenation of water bodies. The report suggested measures to check over exploitation of ground water, and mentioned that 15% of Delhi ground water have reached below 40 meters. A detailed action plan involving decentralized sewage treatment plants, a comprehensive plan to prevent illegal use of groundwater by industries and big institutions, etc. was also presented in the report.
On September 11, 2019, the second report by the Monitoring Committee came up for consideration, it was found that out of 34 units of ground water resources, 22 are 'over exploited' (dark blocks), 2 are 'critical', 7 are 'semi critical' and 3 are in 'safe' category. The report highlighted that over use of ground water for drinking, irrigation and domestic purposes was resulting in rapid depletion of ground water.
On considering the report, it was felt that water bodies needed to be restored by recharging borewells, water shed development, intensive afforestation and campaign. The Committee suggested that all Government buildings have to make a provision for RWH, and DJB has to implement RWH systems in Government buildings not maintained by PWD.
The Committee considered the status of RWH systems in schools and colleges and found illegal borewells in many schools and found water meters reflecting low consumption of water.
The Committee also considered the status of illegal borewells and found it necessary to seal the same.
Appreciating the efforts made by the Committee, the Principal Bench issued certain directions to various authorities, while the pendency of the next report. The DJB was directed to prepare an action to ensure that rain water harvesting systems are installed in all Government buildings and group housing societies. Furthermore, as per directions, the existing Government buildings and group housing societies buildings where roof top RWH has not been installed, are required to furnish a declaration of compliance upto 31.12.2019.
The NGT has directed the Committee to give its further report by November 30, 2019. The matter will be next heard on December 9, 2019, for further consideration.
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