24 April,2026 05:14 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Bombay High Court. File Pic
The Bombay High Court on Friday came down heavily on the Maharashtra government and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation over worsening pollution levels at the Kanjurmarg dumping ground, warning that it may order the closure of the site if immediate corrective steps are not taken, reported PTI.
A bench of Justice Girish Kulkarni and Justice Aarti Sathe expressed serious concern over the environmental and health hazards faced by residents living near the dumping ground in Kanjurmarg, reported PTI.
The court observed that continued inaction by authorities could amount to a violation of citizens' fundamental rights, particularly the right to life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. It warned that if such violations are established, strict legal consequences would follow.
During the hearing, the bench criticised what it described as a "casual approach" by authorities in dealing with pollution and waste management at the site. It noted that despite years of temporary solutions, the situation has not improve, reported PTI.
Calling it one of the worst dumping grounds, the court remarked that authorities have failed to adopt sustainable and scientific methods to manage the waste and its environmental impact.
The High Court highlighted the dangers posed by methane emissions from the dumping ground, pointing out that methane is significantly more harmful than carbon dioxide in terms of environmental impact, reported PTI.
The bench observed that the long-term health consequences of such emissions on nearby residents remain unclear due to inadequate research and monitoring. It directed authorities to examine existing scientific studies and implement effective mitigation measures without delay.
Taking a stern stance, the court stated that it may have no option but to shut down the Kanjurmarg dumping ground if the situation does not improve. It stressed that protecting human life must take precedence over administrative challenges, reported PTI.
"It is high time that human lives are valued," the bench remarked, indicating that a detailed order would follow based on the authorities' response, reported PTI.
The court has directed the state government and the civic body to file detailed affidavits outlining concrete steps to address pollution, control emissions, and safeguard public health.
The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on Monday, with the court expected to review the progress made and consider further action.
The case underscores growing concerns over urban waste management in Mumbai and raises questions about accountability and long-term environmental planning in one of the country's most densely populated cities.
(With inputs from PTI)
