A.S. OKA, J.

OVERVIEW

1. As per the administrative order dated 26th October 2016 passed by Hon’ble the Chief Justice, this PIL has been specially assigned to a Bench presided over by one of us (A.S. Oka, J.). This petition was substantially heard in November 2017, but was adjourned for various reasons including the reason of pendency of a writ Petition challenging acquisition of land for setting up a Sewage Treatment Plant. Lastly it was heard on 1st November 2018.

2. This Public Interest Litigation concerns pollution of river Godavari. River Godavari is the second longest river in India after the river Ganges. It is popularly known as “Dakshin Ganga” (Ganges of south). River Godavari is one of the main sources of water supply to the city of Nashik. The orders passed from time to time in this PIL will show that considering large scale pollution of the river due to various reasons, several steps are required to be taken for rejuvenation of the river and for preventing pollution of the said river.

3. Apart from the doctrine of public trust and Article 51A(g) of the Constitution of India, even in ancient times, the importance of rivers was well recognised. This fact is noted by