The Chhattisgarh High Court has strongly criticised the state government over rising pollution levels in key rivers, describing the situation as a “deeply disturbing and regressive state of affairs". The court was hearing a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL) based on reports highlighting untreated industrial discharge, blackened water, and large-scale fish deaths in affected regions.

A bench led by Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha observed that despite repeated directions issued earlier, there has been little improvement on the ground. The court noted that the current situation reflects clear non-compliance with environmental safeguards and failure to protect vital natural resources.

The crisis is particularly severe in the Shivnath River and Kharun River, where reports indicate toxic industrial waste being discharged into water bodies. In the Shivnath River, untreated effluents from nearby factories have reportedly turned the water black and led to fish deaths. Residents have also complained of skin irritation and respiratory issues linked to exposure, although many remain silent due to economic dependence on these industries.

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The court also highlighted alarming conditions along the Kharun River, where waste from a liquor factory has reportedly accumulated in abandoned mining pits, forming toxic reservoirs. These pollutants are gradually seeping into the river, further degrading water quality. Observations suggest that the river has effectively turned into a drain, with even animals avoiding its water due to contamination.

Expressing serious concern, the court said that rivers — once lifelines for surrounding communities — are now being reduced to carriers of industrial waste. It has directed the state government and pollution control authorities to submit detailed affidavits outlining action taken against violating units. The case is expected to play a crucial role in determining accountability and enforcing stricter environmental compliance in the state.

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