Ganga and Yamuna Rivers: Through the Lens of the National Green Tribunal

Despite the country’s extensive environmental jurisprudence and many historic rulings in which the courts have rescued worsening environmental situations, river (Ganga and Yamuna) water does not match the mandated minimum “bathing quality.” Rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna, which flow through numerous states and towns, would be in a different situation. Without strict monitoring and enforcement of the measures, no action plan can work. Punishment of defaulters can serve as deterrence while also instilling fear in other non-compliant enterprises. In comparison to environmental legislation, the NGT Act allows for substantially harsher fines and penalties. River rejuvenation plans must be carefully monitored to ensure that they do not suffer the same fate. Making action plans will not improve river water quality unless they are implemented with sincerity and consistency, as well as continuous monitoring and severe enforcement.