The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed Jetpur-Navagadh Nagarpalika in Gujarat to complete its pending underground sewage network work “as expeditiously as possible,” setting a firm deadline in line with the civic body’s own affidavit. The order, delivered on November 17, 2025, comes after years of litigation over untreated sewage and industrial effluent polluting the Bhadar River.
The tribunal noted that while 70 percent of Jetpur’s drainage system has already been converted to underground pipelines, the remaining 30 percent still relies on open drains. The civic body has awarded a contract for the remaining work, which is expected to be completed by December 2026. Until then, several locations continue to release domestic sewage into natural drains due to incomplete connectivity.
A joint inspection carried out in May 2025 found no evidence of industrial effluent entering the Bhadar River. However, the team observed multiple points where domestic sewage was flowing into drains and ultimately into the river because certain residential clusters are still not linked to the municipal network. Following the inspection, the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB) issued a show-cause notice to the municipality.
The tribunal also examined compliance by the Jetpur Dyeing and Printing Association (JDPA), which operates one of the area’s Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs). The GPCB confirmed that old C-channels used for effluent discharge have been dismantled and that tankers transporting effluent are being monitored through GPS, although installation in all tankers is still ongoing. Average treated-water readings from 2024 show mixed compliance with discharge norms, with some parameters exceeding permissible limits.
In its final directions, the NGT instructed the municipality to ensure 100 percent household connectivity, prevent untreated sewage from entering stormwater drains, and strictly avoid any discharge—domestic or industrial—into the river. It also reminded authorities to follow Supreme Court–mandated buffer zones around lakes and major drains, classifying them as strict no-construction areas. The GPCB has been tasked with ensuring that all CETPs and STPs operate with valid consents and comply with environmental standards.
The case, originally a PIL before the Gujarat High Court, highlights persistent wastewater management gaps in Jetpur. While the tribunal acknowledged significant progress, it stressed that environmental compliance cannot be delayed further and must meet the timelines already placed on record.
Counsels : Applicant: Mr. Dharamvir Sharma, Advocate (Through VC) Respondent: Ms. Manisha Lavkumar, Senior Advocate with Ms. Aasthha Mehta & Ms. Prina Sharma, Advs. for R – 2 Dr. Purvish J. Malkan, Senior Advocate with Mr. A. Joseph, Ms. Dharita P. Malkan, Mr. Yashavi V. & Mr. Ryan Singh, Advs. for R – 7 Mr. Siddharth Rami & Mr. Nishant Yadav, Advs. for R – 6 (Through VC)
Case Title : Ramdevbhai Samatbhai Sanjva vs State of Gujarat & Ors.
