Wed Feb 05 21:43:34 IST 2025: **Madurai Court Orders Action on Vaigai River Pollution**
MADURAI, INDIA (February 5, 2025) – The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has directed the Madurai District Revenue Officer (DRO) to report on the actions taken by the Madurai District Level Preservation, Rehabilitation of Vaigai River Committee. This follows a contempt petition filed by M. Naga Rajan of the Vaigai Nathi Makkal Iyakkam, alleging non-compliance with a previous court order to establish committees across five districts to monitor and protect the Vaigai River from sewage pollution.
The court initiated suo moto proceedings after reviewing news reports, based on a Madurai Nature Cultural Foundation study, highlighting the river’s severe pollution. The petitioner argued that despite the court’s order to conduct regular inspections and prevent sewage discharge, no significant action has been taken, leading to continued pollution.
The court, comprising Justices G.R. Swaminathan and B. Pugalendhi, noted the Collector’s affidavit but required further clarification on the committee’s formation. The DRO is mandated to appear before the court on February 6th, where all Vaigai River-related matters, including the suo moto proceedings, will be heard. The court is expected to issue directives to address the pollution and hold accountable those responsible.
First Piper 