Green Tribunal Calls for Urgent Action on Jaundice Outbreak in Shopian Village

The National Green Tribunal criticized authorities for failing to prevent a jaundice outbreak in a Shopian village. They highlighted inadequate sanitation and contaminated water sources. The Tribunal demanded immediate remedial actions, emphasizing the constitutional right to safe water under Article 21 and UN resolutions recognizing water and sanitation as basic human rights.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has reprimanded authorities following a jaundice outbreak in a village in Shopian district. The Tribunal also criticized the Jammu and Kashmir Pollution Control Committee and the Shopian Deputy Commissioner for submitting an inadequately prepared report on the issue.

The bench of NGT Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava noted the failure of authorities in ensuring clean drinking water for Pahnoo village residents. Directives were issued to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Shopian Deputy Commissioner to ensure sanitation and safe water supply in the village.

After taking suo motu cognizance of a news report about children contracting jaundice due to contaminated water, the NGT emphasized the constitutional right to clean water under Article 21. The tribunal called for immediate corrective measures, including stopping untreated sewage discharge and establishing sewage treatment plants.

(With inputs from agencies.)