Water Pollution and Judicial Response

Abstract

Water Pollution is serious problem in the global world. Increasing population, urbanization, environmental degradation, changing agricultural sectors, etc., are some of the factors that are determining the future water demands. The global and regional environmental problems include loss of species and biodiversity, toxic chemicals and hazardous waste, ozone depletion, trans boundary air pollution and climate change. This paper discusses the constitutional provisions for the protection of environment and public health. The fundamental rights and Directive Principles of the State Policy are committed to protect and improve the environment. The concept of public interest litigation is discussed with different water pollution case laws. The paper briefly discusses the Water Act of 1974, and authorities under the Act for protecting and promoting cleanliness of streams and wells in the state. The Supreme Court under Article 32 and High Court under Article 226 are playing a great role for the protection of environmental degradation.

Keywords: Water, pollution, Environment, Public interest litigation, Judiciary

JEL Classification: Q25