The Jharkhand High Court has taken serious note of the alarming air pollution levels in Dhanbad and sought responses from Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL), Dhanbad Municipal Corporation, and the Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board. The division bench of Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Rajesh Shankar heard a Public Interest Litigation filed by Gramin Ekta Manch, raising concerns over deteriorating air quality and civic neglect in the coal city.
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Court Sought Detailed Replies from Key Agencies
During the hearing, the court directed all three authorities to file detailed replies explaining the steps taken to curb pollution and improve maintenance in the affected areas. The next hearing is scheduled for 17th November. The bench observed that the situation in Dhanbad has reached a critical stage, warranting immediate and coordinated action from civic and industrial bodies operating in the region.
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Municipal Body Cited Lack of Funds from BCCL
In its affidavit, the Dhanbad Municipal Corporation informed the court that it also carries out maintenance work in BCCL controlled areas but faces severe financial constraints due to non-receipt of necessary funds from the coal company. The corporation said that this lack of financial support has affected cleaning operations, waste disposal, and the implementation of pollution control measures. A related case on fund allocation is already pending before the court, the affidavit mentioned.
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Pollution Control Board Asked to Present Compliance Report
The Jharkhand Pollution Control Board has also been asked to submit a detailed compliance report on the steps taken to monitor air quality and enforce environmental standards in Dhanbad. Environmental experts have repeatedly warned that Dhanbad’s PM levels often exceed safe limits, making the air hazardous for residents.
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Court Observes Need for Coordination Among Agencies
The bench observed that administrative overlap between BCCL and the civic body has aggravated the crisis. It stressed the need for better coordination and clear accountability to ensure effective pollution management.
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