The Delhi government has sought urgent intervention from the Supreme Court due to the exacerbation of the water crisis.
Despite various measures, the government contends it has been unable to address the issue adequately. With temperatures soaring and demand rising, an emergent solution is imperative to mitigate the unfolding water and sanitation crisis. The appeal specifically targets Haryana and Himachal Pradesh, urging them to release more water into the National Capital Territory (NCT) region.
Historical Precedent
This isn’t the first time the Delhi government has turned to the Supreme Court for resolution of its water woes. Back in 1995, a similar plea was filed by Commodore S D Sinha, prompting an interim order directing Haryana to ensure a steady flow of water into the Yamuna River to alleviate Delhi’s drinking water shortage.
Legal History: 1996 Ruling
In 1996, the Supreme Court rendered a significant ruling in the case of Delhi Water Supply and Sewage Disposal Undertaking v. State of Haryana. The court mandated that Delhi must receive a consistent supply of water from Haryana throughout the year. Despite subsequent contentions and petitions over alleged violations of this ruling, the court upheld its stance, citing infrastructural developments and changes since the initial order.
Recent Developments and Current Dismissal
In 2021, the Delhi Jal Board filed a petition alleging Haryana’s non-compliance with the 1996 ruling. However, the Supreme Court dismissed the plea, emphasizing that the 1996 order was an interim measure and couldn’t be applied under current circumstances due to significant infrastructural changes and developments in Delhi since then.
Current Appeal: Seeking Relief
The current appeal to the Supreme Court underscores the immediate need for additional water supply, especially considering Delhi-NCR’s substantial workforce and migrant population. The government emphasizes that it is seeking interim relief until the monsoon season begins, acknowledging the necessity for a stop-gap arrangement to address the crisis.
The Delhi government’s plea to the Supreme Court reflects the gravity of the water crisis in the region, necessitating urgent intervention to mitigate its adverse effects on the populace and infrastructure.
Share your news, articles, deals, columns, or press releases with us! Click the link to submit and join our platform today.
