Research Foundn. For Science Technology And National Resource Policy v. Union of India (UOI)
2014-02-12
H.L.GOKHALE, KURIAN JOSEPH
body2014
DigiLaw.ai
JUDGMENT : IA No. 43 of 2007 in Writ Petition (C) No. 657 of 1995 1. Ms. Karuna Nandy, learned Counsel appearing for some organizations from Bhopal has filed an affidavit of one Mr. Satinath Sarangi affirmed on 3rd January, 2014. Mr. Sarangi, in his affidavit, accepts that there has been some good progress with respect to laying down of the pipelines for proper water supply in the affected areas of Bhopal as also with respect to sewage facilities. He, however, points out that still good amount of work is incomplete in different communities which were affected by toxic contamination of ground water. The affidavit prays that the Monitoring Committee be asked to make a physical verification of the incomplete water supply and drainage related problems. Mr. CD. Singh, who is supposed to appear for the State of Madhya Pradesh is not present. 2. Mr. S.P. Singh is present for the Ministry of Environment and Forests. Mr. Rakesh Kumar Khanna, learned Additional Solicitor General of India is also present for the Ministry. They have no objection to the physical verification as sought for. 3. We, therefore, direct the Monitoring Committee to make a physical verification of the incomplete water supply and drainage related problems in the affected communities. It will take some time, so the report be presented within four weeks. 4. It was directed on 6th November, 2012 that the pipelines supplying drinking water should not be in close proximity with drainage system. The Committee will make a report on that aspect also. 5. Since the Committee is asked to make a report, it does not mean that the work with respect to laying down of pipelines itself should not be proceeded. The Bhopal Municipal Corporation should proceed with the work in the meanwhile as expeditiously as possible. List the IA after four weeks. I.A. Nos. 23, 40, 42, 55, 56, 57 & 63, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68 & 69 in Writ Petition (C) No. 657/1995. List on 13.2.2014.