NGT Forms High-Level Committee to Investigate Water Contamination in MP Cities

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) Central Zone bench has formed a six-member high-level committee to investigate sewage-mixed water supply in Madhya Pradesh cities, terming it a violation of the right to life. This action follows several deaths in Indore due to contaminated drinking water. The NGT has held state government, pollution control board, and local bodies accountable. The committee will submit its report within six weeks, with the next hearing scheduled for March 30. The NGT has also directed all district collectors and municipal commissioners to ensure immediate compliance with its orders, including GIS-based mapping of water and sewage lines, mandatory water purification processes, and regular cleaning of water tanks. Orders have been issued to repair pipelines, remove encroachments near water sources, and implement water rationing during scarcity. The tribunal also mandated the revival of public wells, rainwater harvesting, and the relocation of dairies from city limits. Meter installation on water connections and a plan for water tanker supply have also been directed.