Newspaper Article Dated 19TH December 2024 Published in Dainik Bhashakr Hindi Titled as Bade Chote Talab Aur Vip Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic vs State of Madhya Pradesh

Item No.07

BEFORE THE NATIONAL GREEN TRIBUNAL CENTRAL ZONE BENCH, BHOPAL (Through Video Conferencing)

Original Application No.271/2024(CZ)

Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, Published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic”

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Suo Motu

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Vs.

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State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors. Respondent(s)

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Date of Hearing: 08.09.2025

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CORAM: HON’BLE MR. JUSTICE SHEO KUMAR SINGH, JUDICIAL MEMBER HON'BLE MR. SUDHIR KUMAR CHATURVEDI, EXPERT MEMBER

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For Applicant (s):

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Suo Motu ,

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For Respondent(s) : Mr. Prashant M. Harne, Adv. for State Mr. Yadvendra Yadav, Adv. for R-2, Ms. Parul Bhadoria, Adv. for R-3&7, Ms. Disha Chouksey, Adv. for Ms. Gunjan Chowksey, Adv. for BMC

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ORDER

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The fundamental right guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India provides that none shall be deprived of his life and liberty without procedure established by law. Supply of the polluted water for drinking purposes and discharge of sewage and untreated water in

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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open land or the river/water bodies/lakes are causing health hazard and it is indirectly depriving good health and life of the citizens residing in the city. Article 39E, 47 and 48A of the Constitution of India casts a duty on the state to secure the health of the people, improve public health and protect and improve the environment.

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It was by reason of the lack of effort on the part of the enforcement agencies, notwithstanding adequate laws being in placed there are Air Pollution, Water Pollution and Noise Pollution in the city. One of the basic principles underlying environmental law is that of sustainable development. 3. This principle requires such development to take place which is ecologically sustainable and the essential feature of sustainable development are:-

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i. The precautionary principle.

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ii. The polluter pays principle and the authorities are duty bound to take necessary action on the point.

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iii. It is common principle that for the negligence of those to whom public duties have been entrusted, can never be allowed to cause public mischief.

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The matter highlighted in the Danik Bhaskar daily dated 19.12.2024 (copy enclosed) is the dangerous quality of water in the lake situated in the city of the Bhopal. It is reported that through analysis of the water

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Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic”

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Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ)

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it was found that there are microplastic particles in the water and it was found to the extent of 1480-2050 particles per cubic meter in the big lake and while in another lake it was to the extent of 2160-2710. The water quality of the Kereva Dam was also analysed and before treatment it was found as 820 particles per cubic meter while after treatment it was found to be as 450.

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Similarly, the water quality of the Birla Temple was found 450, Pipalya Talab 1765-2175 and Deodharam Tekari, it is 600 particles per cubic meter microplastic. It is dangerous to the health of the public and persons residing in the Bhopal city and using the contaminated water which is highly dangerous to the health. The solid west mainly comprising of plastic carry bag, thermocol plates, styrofoam cups, glass etc. its way into the drainage system and the recycled/coloured plastic bags contain certain chemicals which pollute the air and water when exposed to the natural elements like sunlight and the rain. The sewage water entering into the lake poses grave threat to the lake, wetlands and water bodies threatening migratory and endemic species of birds.

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The State PCB and the CPCB were directed to examine the matter and submit the report. Accordingly, reply and report have been filed.

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Heard the arguments of the learned counsel for the parties and perused the records.

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Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ)

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The submissions of the learned counsel for the Respondent No.12 are that the organisation exclusively managing e-waste and is not involved in any activity related to; generation, disposal, or management of plastic waste, including carry bags, thermocol plates, Styrofoam cups, or glasses and treatment or disposal of sewage water or other pollutants. It is further argued that the notice raises the microplastic particles in the lake and the sewage water entering in the lake, posing threats to water bodies and biodiversity which is not related to the operations of the Respondent and the matter is beyond the jurisdiction of the Respondent.

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Learned counsel for the State PCB Ms. Parul Bhadoria has submitted that the action plan for detecting microplastic in human blood was prepared by the MoEF&CC and the CPCB, ICMR and DHR and it is the concern of the Ministry(s) concerned. It is further submitted that the data related to the microplastics in water sources are not available with MPPCB for the reason that sampling, analysis and standards of microplastics in water are not defined by Central Pollution Control Board.

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In Original Application No.251 of 2022, the CPCB has submitted the report dated 13.02.2023 with regard to aforesaid subject matter. The report acknowledges that Microplastics both primary and secondary, pollute drinking water sources primarily through discharge of sewage/waste water treatment plant effluent and surface runoff. As

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ)

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Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in

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Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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sewage/waste water treatment plants are not equipped for the complete removal of Microplastics, effluent released from these plants contains substantial quantity of Microplastics. Upon mixing of this effluent with fresh water sources, Microplastics become part of fresh/drinking water supply chain. Components of water treatment plants and water distribution system are usually made up of plastic materials such as high density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene etc. These further contribute towards Microplastics generation in the water they carry. Treated bottled water is also reported to contain Microplastics. In air, suspended Microplastics particles have been isolated from various places such as urbanized city centres, indoor households and remote outdoor regions. As there is wide range of Microplastics size, it is highly likely that these particles are inhaled by the humans. Soil can get affected from plastics through various means such as plastic mulch films, municipal waste, sewage sludge, fertilizers coated with plastics. A significant positive correlation has been seen between the rate of sludge applied onto the soil and concentration of Microplastics particles in the soil. Microplastics concentrations have been detected in the air at dumpsites in India. Microplastics is also being reported in human saliva, blood, placenta, colon, stool and lungs.

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The conclusions recorded in the Report were noticed in para 4 of the order are as under:-

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“ C. Conclusions

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ)

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Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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1. Independent studies regarding microplastics have been conducted by various organizations in the country including CPCB, MoES-NCCR, NCSCM, NPC and CIPET. Further international studies have been conducted by WHO, UNEP, OECD and others.

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2. The studies have primarily focussed on monitoring microplastics (concentration, polymer type, colour, shape) in various environmental matrices.

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3. Occurrence of microplastics has been reported in oceans, sediments, surface water, ground water, wastewater, tap water, bottled water, air, food products, aquatic organisms, and human beings

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4. There is currently no standard method for sampling and analysis of microplastics in the environment. ISO is currently working on the subject

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5. Sampling and analytical methods adopted by different institutions in India are similar with minor variations.Variation in Microplastic concentrations units reported by different organizations has been observed

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6. Uniform procedure for sampling & analysis may be developed by organizations involved in microplastic analysis (CIPET, NCSCM, MoES-NCCR) which can be adopted uniformily across the country till the time ISO standard is finalized.

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7. Source of generation of microplastics including industries, waste management, waste water treatment, ocean activities etc. have been identified. However, exact quantum of microplastics generated from the identified source has not been determined.

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8. Microplastic concentration in transfer media is available for soil/beach sediment, surface water bodies, biota and ocean water. Microplastic concentration for sludge , specifically when it is converted to compost for land application is not available

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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9. Microplastic concentration in end use areas including ambient air, drinking water and ground water is available.

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10. Source monitoring, transfer end use of all possible sources listed in Table 3.1 to be covered. Emphasis to be laid on such areas for which no information is available.

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11. Regular monitoring of various water quality parameters to be conducted to provide insight into the presence and concentration of microplastics in environmental matrices(water, sediments, biota)

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12. Microplastic leakages and pathways may be monitored in order to identify further sources and hotspots of microplastics. 13. Uniform procedure for sampling & analysis as finalized by this Committee may be adopted for such studies till the time ISO Standards are finalized.

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14. Studies conducted on the matter have reported about the presence of microplastics in human body. Physiological or psychological impact has not been reported in these studies.

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15. Health impact of emerging contaminants and long term studies are required to establish Cause effect relationship of microplastics on human health.

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16. The aforementioned studies should cover different type, concentration and shapes of microplastics. Impact of chemicals/biofilms associated with Microplastics on human health to be covered. The studies may include the following:

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Estimation of the duration and frequency of human

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exposure to microplastics. Microplastic monitoring as required may be conducted for the same

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Once the exposure assessment is done precisely,

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doseresponse assessment may be carried out, where the minimum concentration (of microplastics) responsible for any observable effect (on human) shall be assessed.

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17. Bioassays may be conducted to assess the Ecotoxicological impact of microplastics on animal life.

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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18. Standards development (Source & ambient) for microplastics may be taken up following establishment of the cause-effect relationship of microplastics on human health 19. Available technologies to be assessed for their efficacy for removal of microplastics.

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20. Technologies to be developed for removal of microplastics from Air & Soil

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21. Source-directed interventions,

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Sustainable design and manufacturing of textiles, tyres,

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and complementary products (laundry detergents, road surfaces, and vehicles), to minimise the tendency of products to contribute to microplastics generation;

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Restrictions on microplastics in the manufacture and

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sale of certain personal care and cosmetic products containing microplastics.

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Product requirements for household, commercial, or

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industrial washing machines. For instance, Australia and France have introduced measures to phase in microfibre filters on new washing machines.

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22. End-of-life interventions, effective solid & plastic waste management practices, to prevent waste leaking into the environment and potentially contributing to microplastics generation including the following;

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(a) Reducing the amount of plastic waste that enters landfills and dumpsites through the implementation of waste reduction policies and initiatives, such as waste-

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to-energy programs and increased recycling. Microplastics can also be reduced by supporting the development and use of biodegradable plastic alternatives

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23. End-of-pipe interventions, wastewater, stormwater, and road runoff management and treatment, to retain the emitted microplastics before these reach water bodies.

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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24. Maximizing clean drinking water supply to all citizens in the country.

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25. Other Best practices as listed below for minimizing microplastics in environment may be followed:

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(a) Install physical barriers such as screens and filters on STP/WWTP systems to help reduce the amount of microplastics that enter rivers, lakes, and oceans.

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(b) Support sustainable fishing practices to reduce the amount of microplastic entering rivers from fishing equipment.

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(c) Implementation of Clean-up efforts for beaches and rivers.

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26. Training and capacity building including microplastic monitoring, analysis, health impact studies may be taken up for effective implementation of aforementioned points.”

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In the above noted matter, the CPCB has filed the report and the MoEF&CC has filed the reply with the report attached which contains the report of 2019 of World Health Organisation (WHO) highlighting following points:-

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Plastic polymers being insoluble, they are unlikely to be

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absorbed from the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and generally do not interact with biological matrices.

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Plastics can contain additives and unbound monomers,

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which may leach out either into the surrounding water environment prior to human consumption or potentially, into the GI tract to become bioavailable under some circumstances.

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Investigation of potential risks related to particles indicate

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that it is possible that smaller plastic particles may be able to pass through the gut wall and translocate to tissues remote from the mucosa, although this may not necessarily translate to a health risk.

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic”

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Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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Humans have always ingested particles and have ingested

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plastic particles for decades with no related indication of adverse health effects and evidence suggests that microplastics pass through the GI tract into the faeces.

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• Currently a paucity of information to quantitatively assess any potential risk associated with exposure to microplastic particles. Most toxicological tests of microplasties have focused on aquatic organisms or ecotoxicology.

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There are no studies on the impacts of ingested microplastics

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on human health and there are only a limited number of animal studies of questionable reliability and relevance.

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There is currently no evidence to suggest a human health

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risk from microplastic associated biofilms in drinking-water.

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Routine monitoring of microplastics in drinking-water is not

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recommended at this time, as there is no evidence to indicate a human health concern.”

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Thereafter, conclusions which emerged from WHO Report, have been

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culled down in para 9 as under:-

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“9. After detailed deliberations, the following emerged based on conclusions drawn in the report:

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(a) Proposed studies on human health effects of microplastics, standardization of methodology for sampling and analysis microplastics, availability of technologies for removal of microplastics and standard development.

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(i) Long term studies on health effects of microplasties and ecotoxicological studies under Indian conditions need to be performed using standardized methodologies, before development of any environmental standards, as required, based upon scientific data.

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(ii) Central Pollution Control Board to coordinate with the expert institutions /technical experts, if required beyond

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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those mentioned in the pro-forma, for development of uniform methodology and availability of technologies for removal of microplastics. Central Pollution Control Board may also involve expert institutions/technical experts, beyond those mentioned in the Ministry wise proforma, as required.

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(iii) Indian Council of Medical Research along with the Central Pollution Control Board and other relevant institutions may initiate long-term under Indian conditions, keeping in view national and international literature available on the topic. It was noted that causal relationship between micro plastics and adverse health effects has not been shown. WHO report of 2109 has also mentioned the same.

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(b) Source directed interventions

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(i) The concerned Ministries/bodies, to consider source directed interventions as per pro-forma, based upon principle sustainable development and scientific evidence on micro plastic releases, and submit comments and action plans, ns appropriate. It was noted that the report does not provide data on releases of microplastics form these sectors under Indian conditions.

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(c) Waste management, end-of-life interventions and other best practices

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(i) The conclusions covered in the NGT order dated 1st March 2023 and the report of the Committee is to be considered by all the concerned Ministries, as per the NGT order, keeping in view ongoing initiatives.”

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In the light of the above, the MoEF&CC has prepared an action plan, specifying obligations/duties/performance to be shown by different departments on various aspects and the said action plan has been filed as annexure III to the Report which reads as under:-

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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“Ministry – wise action plan vide order dated 9th October 2023 of Hon’ble NGT in Original Application no. 251/2022 on “Detecting micro

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plastic in Human Blood”

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S. Conclusions of the Concerned Action Plan/Action
No Report prepared by Ministries/ Taken
CPCB, ICMR, CIPET Department/
and Body
NCSCM
1. Uniform procedure for CPCB to develop CPCB had two meetings
sampling & analysis uniform procedure with representatives
may be developed for of the
by organizations sampling and concerned
involved in microplastic analysis along organizati
analysis (CIPET, with Central ons (NCCR, CIPET,
NCSCM, MoES- Institute of NEERI, IITR, ICMR-
NCCR) which can Petrochemicals, NIREH, NCSCM), on
be Engineering 9.11.2023 and
adopted uniformly 17.11.2023
across the country till the & pursuant to the meeting
time ISO standard is Technology held
finalized. (CIPET), National on 26 th October 2023
Centre for
Sustainable
Coastal
Management
(NCSCM)
and
National
Cent
re for

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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Coa
stal Research
(NCCR)
2. Source of generation of CPCB, Points 2-6, 13, 14, 20
microplastics CIPET/DCPC,
including NCSCM/MoEFCC, • Preliminary listing of a
industries, NCCR/MoES,
• Proposed SOP for
waste CSIR- IITR monitoring
management, waste and
• Compilation of
water treatment, ocean CSIR-NEERI
technologies for
activities etc. have been
microplastic removal
identified. However,
• Meeting with
exact quantum of
stakeholders
microplastics
• Awarding of work
generated from
• Execution of work
the identified source has
not been determined.
3. Microplastic As above As above
concentration in transfer
media is available for
soil/beach sediment,
surface water bodies,
biota and ocean water.
Microplastic

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	concentration for sludge, specifically when it is converted to compost for land application is not available
4.	Source monitoring, transfer end use of all possible sources listed in Table 3.1 of the report to be covered. Emphasis to be laid on such areas for which no information is available.	As above	As above
5.	Regular monitoring of various water quality	As above	As above
	parameters to be
	conducted to provide insight into the presence and concentration of microplastics in environmental matrices (water, sediments, biota)
6.	Microplastic leakages and pathways may be monitored in order to identify further sources and hotspots of microplastics.	As above	As above

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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7.	Uniform procedure for sampling & analysis as finalized by this Committee may be adopted for such studies till the time ISO Standards are finalized.	CPCB, CIPET/ DCPC, NCSCM/ MoEFCC, NCCR/ MoES, CSIR- IITR and CSIR-NEERI	Covered in 1
8.	Health impact of emerging contaminants and long term studies are required to establish Cause effect relationship of microplastics on human health	Nodal agency Indian Council of Medical Research- National Institute of Environmental Health Research /DHR, CPC B, CIPET/DCPC, NCSCM/MoEFCC, NCCR/MoES	a compilation of studies on presence of microplastics/ emerging contaminants in human body will be made for chalking out the methodology/ scope of work with respect to studying cause effect relationship for physiological impacts, dose- response assessment etc.
9.	Studies conducted on the matter have reported about the presence of microplastics in human body. Physiological or psychological impact has not been reported in these studies.	As above	As above

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The aforementioned As above As above
studies should cover
different type,
concentration and shapes
of microplastics.
Impact of
chemicals/biofilms
associated with
Microplastics on
human health to be
covered. The studies may
include the following:
• Estimation of
the duration and
frequency of human
exposure to
microplastics.
Microplastic monitoring
as required may be
conducted for the same.
• Once the
exposure
assessment is done
precisely, dose-
response
assessment may be
carried out, where
the minimum
concentration (of
microplastic
s) responsible for

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Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ)

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any observable effect (on human) shall be assessed.
11.Bioassays may be conducted to assess the Eco- toxicological impact of micro plastics on animal life.	CPCB, CSIR- IITR, CSIR- NEERI	Bioassays to assess CSIR IITR provided list of already available bioassays which can be used to assess the Eco- toxicological impact of micro plastics on animal life on payment basis:
		1. Daphnia sp. Acute Immobilisation test (OECD TG 202) 2. Fish, Acute Toxicity Test (OECD TG 203) 3. Earthworm, Acute Toxicity Test (OECD TG 207) 4. Daphnia magna Reproduction Test (OECD TG 211) 5. Earthworm Reproduction Test (OECD TG 222) 6. Fish early life stage toxicity test (OECD TG 210) 7. Freshwater Alga

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Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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		and Cyanobacteria, Growth Inhibition Test (OECD TG 201) ¬ 8. Avian Acute Oral Toxicity Test (OECD TG 223) 9. Avian Acute dietary Toxicity Test (OECD TG 205)
12.Standards development (Source & ambient) for microplastics may be taken up following establishment of the cause-effect relationship of micro plastics on human health	CPCB, ICMR/DHR	Post completion of activities listed in item 2 to 11
13.Available technologies to be assessed for their efficacy for removal of microplastic	CPCB, CIPET/ DCPC, NCSCM/ MoEFCC, NCCR/ MoES, CSIR- IITR and CSIR-NEERI	Points 2-6, 13, 14, 26 • Preliminary listing of a • Proposed SOP for monitoring • Compilation of technologies for microplastic removal • Meeting with stakeholders • Awarding of work • Execution of work

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14.	Technologies to be developed for removal of micro plastics from Air & Soil	As above	As above
15.	Source - directed		The concerned
	interventions,		Ministries/ bodies, to consider source
	Sustainable design and	• Ministry of	directed interventions as
	manufacturing of textiles,	Textiles,	per pro- forma, based
	tyres, and		upon principle
	complementary products	• Department of	sustainable development
	(laundry detergents, road surfaces, and vehicles),	Promotion and Industry and	and scientific evidence on micro plastic
	to minimize the tendency of products to contribute	Internal Trade,	releases, and submit comments and action
	to microplastics	• Ministry of	plans, as appropriate. It
	generation;	Heavy Industries,	was noted that the report does not provide
		• Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Department of Chemicals and Petro- Chemicals	data on releases of microplastics form these sectors under Indian conditions.
16.	Restrictions on	• CDSCO/	As per information
	microplastics in the	Department of	provided by Drug
	manufacture and sale of	Health and	Controller General
	certain personal care and	• Fam	(India). the Restrictions
	cosmeticproducts	ily Welfare	on the use of
	containing microplastics	Department of	microplastics in the

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		Pharmaceuticals	manufacture and sale of
			certain personal care
			and cosmetip products
			are available in
			Amendment No. 2,
			November 2017 (Fourth Revision) of IS 4707 Pan
			2. 2017 under
			Classification of Cosmetic Raw Materials and Adjuncts. As per S. No. 1373 of Annex-A, Plastic microbeads: 5
			mm or less, water- insoluble, solid plastic particles used to exfoliate or cleanse in rinse- off personal care products are not recognized as safe for use in Cosmetics.
17.	Product requirements for	Department of	The concerned
	household, commercial,	Promotion and	Ministries/bodies, to
	or industrial washing	Industry and	consider source directed
	machines. For instance,	Internal Trade	interventions as per pro-
	Australia and France		forma, based upon
	have introduced		principle sustainable
	measures to phase in		development and
	micro fibre filters on new		scientific evidence on
	washing machines		micro plastic releases, and submit comments
			and action plans, as
			appropriate. It was
			noted that the report

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does not provide data on
releases of microplastics
form these sectors under
Indian conditions.
18. End-of-life interventions, • Already, the Ministry
effective solid & plastic of Environment, Forest
waste management and Climate Change,
practices, to prevent Government of India,
waste leaking into the have taken steps for
environment and reducing pollution
potentially contributing to caused by littered and
microplastics generation unmanaged plastic
including the following; waste, along with
State Governments,
• Reducing the amount • Department of local bodies and
of plastic waste that Drinking Water Central Pollution
enters landfills and and Control Board and
dumpsites through the Sanitation, State Pollution Control
implementation of • Ministry of Board and Pollution
waste reduction Housing and Control Committees.
policies and Urban Affairs, • In order to reduce
initiatives, such as • MoEFCC pollution caused by
waste to-energy littered and
programs and unmanaged plastic
increased recycling. waste, the Ministry
• Microplastics can also has banned identified
be reduced by single use plastic
supporting the items which have high
development and use littering potential and
of biodegradable low utility and
plastic alternatives extended producer
responsibility on
plastic packaging is

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being implemented.
Identified single use
plastic items, which
have low utility and
high littering potential,
have already been
prohibited, with effect
from 1st July, 2022,
vide Plastic Waste
Management
Amendment Rules,
2021 notified on 12th
August 2021.
• The Ministry of
Environment, Forest
and Climate Change
notified the Guidelines
on Extended Producer
Responsibility (EPR)
for plastic packaging
vide Plastic Waste
Management
(Amendment) Rules,
2022, on 16th
February 2022. The
Guidelines
stipulate mandatory
targets on EPR,
recycling of plastic
packaging waste,
reuse of rigid plastic
packaging and use of
recycled plastic

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content. The
guidelines provide for
moving towards
sustainable plastic
packaging and
reducing the plastic
foot print. The
implementation of ban
on identified single
use plastic items
coupled with extended
producer
responsibility on
plastic packaging will
reduce pollution
caused by littered and
unmanaged plastic
waste.
• The single use plastic
ban has triggered
development of
innovative eco-
alternatives, new
business models,
increase in the
manufacturing
capacity and uptake
of eco- alternatives, at
scale. Already,
Startups and
manufacturers are
manufacturing eco-
alternatives such as

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cutlery made bagasse
and rice and wheat
bran, straws made
from dried coconut
leaves, straws made
from paper, at scale.
In keeping with the
development of eco-
alternatives, Bureau
of Indian Standard
has notified Indian
Standard IS 18267 for
Food Serving Utensil
Made from Agri By-
Products. Reduction in
the use of single
plastic items is one of
the key focus areas
under Mission LiFE -
Lifestyles For
Environment
- launched by Hon’ble
PM at COP 26 of
UNFCCC at Glasgow
in 2021.
• The Guidelines for
Extended Producer
Responsibility (EPR)
on plastic packaging
were notified in
February 2022 for
environmentally
sound management of

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plastic packaging till
end of its life by
producers, importers
and brand owners,
who introduce the
plastic packaging in
the market. For ease
of doing business the
EPR framework is
implemented through
a centralized online
portal.
• The Guidelines
stipulate mandatory
targets on EPR,
recycling of
plastic packaging
waste, reuse of rigid
plastic packaging and
use of recycled plastic
content. The
guidelines provide
steps for moving
towards sustainable
plastic packaging and
reducing the plastic
foot print. The EPR
Guidelines also
provide for
sustainable plastic
packaging and
implementation of new
models for waste

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collection such as
Deposit Refund
System and buy back
model have been given
a boost through the
EPR Guidelines.
• Due to the clear
framework laid down
by EPR Guidelines
notified in February
2022, and on account
of effective
implementation, till
date 31401 Producers,
Importers and Brand
Owners (PIBOs) and
2290 Plastic Waste
Processors (PWPs)
have registered on the
centralized EPR portal
developed by CPCB,
as opposed to 300 in
2021. The cumulative
EPR obligation of
registered PIBOs for
the year 2022-23 is
around 3.07 million
tonnes for the year
2022- 23, which is a
significant proportion
of plastic waste
generated in the
country.

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• As per the EPR portal
dashboard, EPR
certificates for around
4.6 million tonnes of
plastic packaging
waste have been
generated by plastic
waste processors after
processing of plastic
packaging waste, of
which, already
around3.32 million
tonnes of EPR
certificates have been
exchanged with
producers, importer
and brand- owners.
• The following steps
have been taken to
strengthen
implementation of
Plastic Waste
Management Rules,
2016 and to
implement ban on
identified single use
plastic items:
(i) All thirty-six
States/UTs have
constituted the
Special Task Force
under the
chairpersonship of

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Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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the Chief
Secretary/Administr
ator for elimination of
identified single use
plastic items and
effective plastic
waste management.
A National Level
Taskforce has also
been constituted by
the Ministry for
taking coordinated
efforts to eliminate
identified single use
plastic items and
effective
implementation of
Plastic Waste
Management Rules,
2016. Four meetings
of the National Task
Force have been
held.
(ii) Twenty-Four State
/UT Governments
and concerned
Central Ministries/
Departments have
already developed a
comprehensive action
plan for elimination
of single use plastic
and implement it in a
time bound manner.

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(iii) Directions have
been issued under
Section 5 of the
Environment
(Protection) Act, 1986
for setting up of
institutional
mechanism for
enforcement of
provisions of Plastic
Waste Management
Rules 2016 to all
State Pollution
Control Boards/
Pollution Control
Committees.
Directions have also
been issued to
Ecommerce
companies, leading
single use plastic
sellers/users, and
plastic raw material
manufacturers with
respect to phasing
out of identified
single use plastic
items. Separately,
custom authorities
have been asked to
stop the import of
banned SUP items.
(iv) For effective
monitoring of ban on
29

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identified single use
plastic items and
plastic waste
management in the
country the following
online platforms are
in operation (a)
National Dashboard
on for monitoring of
comprehensive action
plan implementation,
(b) CPCB Monitoring
Module for
Compliance on
Elimination of Single
Use Plastic, and (c)
CPCB Grievance
Redressal App.
v. Regular enforcement
drives have been
undertaken by CPCB,
SPCBs/PCCs to
implement ban on
identified single use
plastic items and on
plastic carry bags
having thickness less
than one hundred
twenty microns.
(vi) In order to provide
assistance to
MSME enterprises
transitioning away from

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			single use plastic items
			to eco alternatives,
			Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium
			Enterprises has made
			provisions in their
			ongoing schemes. A
			National Expo on eco- alternatives to banned single use plastics
			items and Conference of Startups - 2022 was organized jointly with Government of Tamil Nadu in Chennai on 26- 27th September 2022 to raise awareness on alternatives. Awareness generation and capacity building programmes have been
			organized for
			elimination of single use plastics.
19.	End-of-pipe interventions,	• Department of
	wastewater, stormwater,	Water Resources,
	and road runoff	River
	management	development and
	and treatment, to	Ganga
	retain the emitted	Rejuvenation,
	microplastics before these
	reach water bodies.	• Department of

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Drinking Water
and Sanitation
• Ministry of
Housing and
Urban Affairs
20. Maximizing clean Department of Central Government is
drinking water supply to Drinking Water implementing Jal
all citizens in the country and Sanitation Jeevan Mission.
21. Other Best practices as MoEFCC has included
listed below for the activity of putting
minimizing microplastics barriers for stopping
in environment ingress of plastic
may be followed: waste into water
bodies under the
Install physical barriers • Department of template of
such as screens and Drinking Water Comprehensive action
filters on STP/WWTP and plan shared with
systems to help reduce Sanitation, states and UTs for
the amount of effective plastic waste
microplastics that enter • Ministry of management and
rivers, lakes, and oceans. Housing and elimination of single
Urban Affairs. use plastics
• Department of
Water
Resources,
River
development
and Ganga
Rejuvenation,

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22.	Support sustainable	• Department of
	fishing practices to reduce the amount of microplastic entering rivers from fishing equipment.	Fisheries
23.	Implementation of Clean- up efforts for beaches and rivers	Ministry of Earth Science and MoEFCC, NCC	Pan India beach clean up activities have been carried out at more than 150 beaches since 2017 and to be continued through the adoption of beaches by local institutions/universitie s/colleges/NGOs/age ncies for regular clea up and monitoring. Swachh Sagar Surakhshit Sagar and Puneet Sagar Campaign has been undertaken.
24.	Training and capacity building including microplastic monitoring, analysis, health impact studies may be taken up for effective implementation of aforementioned points.”	CPCB, DCPC/ CIPET, MoEFCC/ NCSCM, MoES/ NCCR	Short term and long term trainings to be implemented by NCSCM. MoES – Workshop has been planned in February 2024 to provide detailed training on sampling and analysis of microplastics to various stakeholders.

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33

¶203

Several dissertation
students/research
scholars have been
trained in
microplastic analysis.
CPCB will also provide
training as per
training schedule.”

¶204

The submissions of the learned counsel for the CPCB are that the CPCB in association with the State Pollution Control Boards in the States and Pollution Control Committees in Union Territories has established a water quality monitoring network under National Water Quality Monitoring Programme (NWMP) to assess status of water quality of water resources in the States/UTs to facilitate for prevention and control of pollution in the water bodies. It is stated that the C.P.C.B. at present monitors water quality of Lower Lake (01) and Upper Lake (04) in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh at 05 locations under National Water Quality Monitoring Programme (N.W.M.P.) in association with the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board. However, there is no monitoring location on Kerwa Dam. The water quality data of Lower Lake and Upper Lake monitored during the Year 2023 is annexed herewith and marked as Annexure R-2/I. The analysis result indicates that 01 location on Lower Lake is non -compliant w. r. t. Dissolved Oxygen (D.O.) and Biochemical Oxygen Demand (B.O.D.) whereas 02 locations on Upper Lake are non - compliant w. r. t. Dissolved Oxygen

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(DO) and pH when compared with Primary Water Quality Criteria for

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Outdoor Bathing notified under Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986 respectively. The water quality Water Quality data of Lower Lake and Upper Lake monitored under NWMP (2023) data is as follows:-

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Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic”

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Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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The report of the World Health Organisation, 2019, discloses that the microplastics are ubiquitous in the environment and have been detected in marine water, wastewater, fresh water, food, air and drinking-water, both bottled and tap water. Microplastics enter freshwater environments in a number of ways: primarily from surface run-off and wastewater effluent (both treated and untreated), but also from combined sewer overflows, industrial effluent, degraded plastic waste and atmospheric deposition. However, there are limited data to quantify the contribution of each the different inputs and their upstream sources. Further, the limited evidence indicates that some microplastics found in drinking-water may come from treatment and distribution systems for tap water and/or bottling of bottled water. A recent systematic review of the literature identified 50 studies detecting microplastics in fresh water, drinking-water or wastewater (Koelmans et al., 2019). The lack of standard methods for sampling and analysing microplastics in the environment means that comparisons across studies are difficult. In addition, few studies were considered fully reliable. Nevertheless, some initial conclusions can be drawn. In fresh water, the frequency of microplastic particles by polymer type was consistent with plastic production volumes and plastic densities. A wide range of shapes and sizes were found. Only nine studies analysed microplastics in drinking-water, and fragments and fibres were the predominant shapes reported. The polymers most frequently detected

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Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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36

¶217

were polyethylene terephthalate and polypropylene. For both freshwater and drinking-water studies, the smallest particles detected were often determined by the size of the mesh used in sampling, which varied significantly across studies. Particle counts ranged from around 0 to 103 particles/L in fresh water. In drinking-water, where smaller mesh sizes are typically applied, concentrations in individual samples ranged from 0 to 104 particles/L and mean values ranged from 10-3 to 103 particles/L. The smallest particle size detected was 1 µm, but this result is constrained by current methods. In most cases, freshwater studies targeted larger particles, using mesh sizes that were an order of magnitude larger than those used in drinking-water studies. Thus, direct comparisons between data from freshwater and drinking-water studies cannot be made.

¶218

It is also reported that the human health risk from microplastics in drinking-water is a function of both hazard and exposure. Potential hazards associated with microplastics come in three forms: the particles themselves which present a physical hazard, chemicals (unbound monomers, additives, and sorbed chemicals from the environment), and microorganisms that may attach and colonize on microplastics, known as biofilms. Based on the limited evidence available, chemicals and microbial pathogens associated with microplastics in drinking-water pose a low concern for human health. Although there is insufficient

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Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in

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Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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¶223

information to draw firm conclusions on the toxicity of nanoparticles, no reliable information suggests it is a concern.

¶224

With regard to particles, it is stated that particle toxicity is dependent on a range of physical properties, including size, surface area, shape and surface characteristics, as well as the chemical composition of the microplastic particle. The fate, transport and health impacts of microplastics following ingestion is not well studied and no epidemiological or human studies on ingested microplastics have been identified. However, microplastics greater than 150 µm are not likely to be absorbed in the human body and uptake of smaller particles is expected to be limited. Absorption and distribution of very small microplastic particles including nanoplastics may be higher, however, the database is extremely limited and findings demonstrating uptake in animal studies occurred under extremely high exposures that would not occur in drinking-water. The limited number of toxicology studies in rats and mice on ingested microplastics are of questionable reliability and relevance, with some impacts observed only at very high concentrations that would overwhelm biological clearance mechanisms and that therefore do not accurately reflect potential toxicities that could occur at lower levels of exposure. Based on this limited body of evidence, firm conclusions on the risk associated with ingestion of microplastic particles through drinking-water cannot yet be determined; however, at this point, no data suggests overt health concerns

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic”

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Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

¶227

38

¶228

associated with exposure to microplastic particles through drinkingwater.

¶229

It is further reported that strategies to reduce the number of plastics released into the environment are critical to the effort to minimize adverse impacts of discarded plastics. Where simple, low cost actions can be taken to make even a small difference to plastic inputs to the environment, it would be sensible to implement them. Actions could include improving recycling programmes, reducing littering, improving circular solutions, reducing the use of plastics where possible and decreasing waste inputs into the environment by industry. Care must be taken, however, when considering mitigation strategies so that addressing one problem does not simply result in the creation of a new one. This is particularly important in view of the limited data on sources of different sizes and types of microplastics, including the very small particles that are currently not well quantified. The benefits of plastic must also be considered before introducing policies and initiatives. For example, single-use syringes play an important role in preventing infections. Priority management actions should be “no regrets,” in that they confer multiple benefits and/or that they are cost-effective.

¶230

Learned counsel for the State PCB has argued that reliable and accurate assessment of exposure and potential impacts to human health can be done on the basis of better research and management actions on following points:-

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¶233

Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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39

¶235

“Development of standard methods: There is a need to improve microplastic sampling and analysis using quality-assured methods. Standard methods for measuring microplastic particles, including nanoplastics in water should be developed to improve the quality of studies and enable researchers to compare and reproduce results. To date, there are no data on the occurrence of nanoplastics in drinking-water or drinking-water sources.

¶236

More studies on the occurrence and characteristics of microplastics: There is a need to better understand the occurrence of microplastics in the environment and in drinking-water using quality-assured methods to determine numbers, shapes, sizes, composition and sources of microplastics.

¶237

Improved understanding of sources of microplastics into fresh water: Although surface run-off and wastewater effluent are considered the main sources of microplastics into fresh water, better data are required to quantify their contributions relative to other inputs and identify the original sources of contamination through these pathways. This may require establishing reliable methods to track origins and identify major sources of microplastics in fresh water.

¶238

More data on the occurrence and fate of microplastics throughout the water supply chain: In drinking-water, an understanding of the occurrence and fate of microplastics is needed throughout the water supply chain, pre- and post-treatment and in sub-optimal conditions to determine the proportion of and types of microplastic particles coming from the freshwater environment, abstraction, treatment systems, distribution systems and bottling and to better characterize effectiveness of water treatment.

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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More data on the return and significance of treatment waste streams: Since plastics are usually not destroyed, but rather transferred from one phase to another, a better understanding on the return and significance of microplastics to the environment from drinking-water and wastewater treatment waste streams, including sludge, is needed. There are currently limited data available on this.

¶242

Increased understanding of toxicological effects of microplastics following ingestion: Toxicological testing of microplastics has been limited mostly to aquatic organisms, and there are no toxicological or epidemiological studies that would inform human health risk assessment for microplastic ingestion. Some toxicological endpoints in a limited number of studies have been conducted but there are questions regarding the reliability of these studies, which are generally limited to assessing effects under high exposure scenarios with unclear relevance to human exposure via drinkingwater at significantly lower concentrations. Quality-assured toxicological data are needed from cell models and/or animals on the most common forms of plastic particles appropriate for human health risk assessment. A better understanding is also needed on the characteristics of microplastics that are most predictive of their toxicity.

¶243

More data on the uptake and fate of microplastics in the Gl tract: The current database of information on plastic particle absorption and toxicity is limited to a few studies using PE, PET or PS. A better understanding is needed on the uptake of microplastic particles, the fate of microplastics in the Gl tract and the influence of particle size, shape and chemical composition, particularly in relation to nanoplastics.

¶244

Better understanding of overall microplastic exposures in the environment: The significance of exposure to microplastics in 41

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

¶246

drinking-water also needs to consider relative exposure from other sources such as food and air. It is difficult with available information to make a robust quantitative estimate on the relative contribution from different sources. A better understanding of occurrence in these environmental compartments, including quality of these studies, will be useful in articulating relative exposure through drinking-water compared to other sources.”

¶247

Learned counsel for the CPCB and the State PCB have argued that BIS 2017 provides plastic microbeads of diameter 5mm or less, that are insoluble in water and solid plastic particles used to exfoliate or cleanse in personal care products are banned, Plastic Waste Management (Second Amendment) Rules, 2022, provides certain measurement and banned imports on solid plastic from March, 2019, and further that various guidelines have been issued to standard methodology for sampling, processing, analysis, finalisation of assessment of quality and quantity of the water of the river with regard to the health. The report says that without establishing cost-effect-relationship, it would not be appropriate to set standards for drinking water having microplastics. 22. Learned counsel for the State Wetland Authority Ms. Parul Bhadoria has further argued that the Madhya Pradesh State Wetland Authority was constituted as per Rule 5 (1) of Wetland (Conservation & Management Rules) 2017 vide letter dated 02.01.2018 and the Madhya Pradesh State Wetland Authority is a regulatory body whose powers & functions are provided under Rule 5(4) of Wetland (Conservation & Management) Rules 2017 and the authority has accordingly been 42

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Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic”

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Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

¶251

performing its functions under the Rules. It is stated that in compliance of the Wetland Rules 2017, an administrative order has been issued by Department of Environment, Govt. of Madhya Pradesh dated 16.03.2022, which is includes a comprehensive list of activities (Prohibited, Regulated and Permitted) for Bhoj Wetland, Bhopal, and their zone of influence area. Letters were sent on dated 17.08.2022 to the Heads of all the concerned stakeholder departments of Madhya Pradesh, Principal Secretary/Secretary/Commissioner/Collectors to ensure compliance of the Administrative Order and Wetland Rules 2017.

¶252

Learned counsel for the Municipal Corporation, Bhopal, Ms. Gunjan Chowksey has argued that the drinking water supplied in the city of Bhopal is primarily sourced from Bada Talab and Kerwa Dam. This water is treated at the Water Purification Plant situated near Birla Mandir, wherein purification is carried out in accordance with the norms and standards prescribed by the Central Public Health and Environmental Engineering Organisation (CPHEEO). The purification process involves the use of settling tanks and sand filters to remove impurities and bacteria, followed by chlorination to ensure the complete elimination of bacterial contaminants. The purified water is thereafter distributed across the city for drinking purposes. It is stated that the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) conducts regular water quality tests of the Bada Talab and Kerwa Dam to ensure that the drinking

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O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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water remains bacteria-free, thereby leaving no scope for the supply of polluted water. Furthermore, it is significant to clarify that water from Chhota Talab is not used in any manner whatsoever for drinking purposes, contrary to the allegations made in the article published in the Dainik Bhaskar newspaper dated 19.12.2024. It is further stated that the Water Purification Plant functions in accordance with the operational procedures and technical guidelines laid down in the standard manual for Rapid Sand Filtration, which outlines the design criteria, filtration mechanism, maintenance protocols, and water quality parameters to be adhered to during the treatment process to ensure the supply of safe and potable drinking water to the public. It is also stated that in lieu of the issues raised in the present contested matter, and in light of the concerns pertaining to the subject at hand, the BMC has also undertaken Micro Plastic testing of the potable water being supplied for drinking purposes. It is further stated that the concerned department of BMC requested vide its letter dated 05.03.2025 to the Department of Chemical Engineering at Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT), Bhopal, to carry out the Micro Plastic analysis of drinking water sourced from Bada Talab and Kerwa Dam as, Micro plastic testing is not conducted at the laboratory of the BMC For this purpose, the BMC paid the requisite testing fee of Rs. 70,800/- to MANIT. Accordingly, MANIT tested the water samples collected from

¶256

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Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

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Bada Talab and Kerwa Dam and prepared detailed test reports, wherein Micro plastics were found to be undetectable in the filtered water.

¶261

It is further argued that in relation to the subject matter of the present case, the Office of the Collector, Bhopal, initiated an internal inquiry in the month of January, 2025, under TL Case No. 8850. In a bona fide and transparent manner, the BMC promptly and diligently submitted all requisite and relevant documents, and a detailed Prativedan in response to the said inquiry and the BMC, as a responsible civic body, periodically and from time to time, adheres to all the applicable rules, regulations, and guidelines to ensure the uninterrupted supply of safe and potable drinking water to the residents of Bhopal. Rigorous measures, including routine quality checks, systematic purification processes, and compliance with standards laid down by the CPHEEO, are consistently followed to maintain water safety and hygiene. Thus, in order to comply with the directions of this Hon'ble Tribunal, the BMC respectfully submits that it has taken all appropriate and necessary steps and continues to do so in good faith. The BMC readily and willingly complies with all statutory requirements and remains committed to fulfilling its obligations under the law for the protection of public health and interest.

¶262

The water quality test report has been filed by the Nagar Nigam Bhopal, which is as follows:-

¶263

O.A. No.271/2024(CZ)

¶264

Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in

¶265

Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

¶266

45

¶267

46

¶268

O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

¶269

47

¶270

O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

¶271

A rapid sand filtration, a research work published on 20^th February, 2024, (169074), discloses that effective removal of microplastics in drinking water is essential for live preservation and the Rapid Sand Filtration (RSF system) was investigated for removal efficiency and the mechanism involved. The results shows that the RSF provides significant capacity for the removal and immobilisation of MPs<10µm diameter (achieving 98%) and the results showed that silicate sand reacted with MPs through a cooperative assembly process, which mainly involved interception, trapping, entanglement and absorption. The State PCB should go through the said research work and if possible, may adopt the technology as a research work.

¶272

The Municipal Corporation Bhopal engaged Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT), Bhopal, Department of Chemical Engineering, and water samples from Birla Mandir, Upper Lake, Kerwa Dam, raw and filtered samples were handed over to the Department and the Department examined it and reported that in the filtered water the microplastic is undetectable. The report is as follows:-

¶273

“Department of Chemical Engineering

¶274

Dated: 24/03/2025

¶275

Dispatch No.: CHE/Analysis/2025/T3

¶276

Subject: Report of Presence of Microplastic in Water Samples from the Upper Lake and Kerwa Dam

¶277

Reference No. 71/S.E./WS/NN/2025, Dated: 05/03/2025

¶278

Results are as follows:

¶279

*S. No. Location*	*Sample type* *Microplastic*
	48
O.A. No.271/2024(CZ)	Newspaper Article dated 19^thDecember, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

¶280

			*Abundance* *(in Particles/M*³)
1	Water sample from Kerwa WTP	Raw Water	132
2	Water sample from Kerwa WTP	Filter Water	Undetectable
3	Water sample from WTP _Birla Mandir _	Filter Water	Undetectable
4	Water sample from Kamla Park	Raw Water	292

¶281

1. The test report is for the sample supplied by the party to the department.

¶282

2. The test report is only for the information of the supplier of test specimens supplied by him.

¶283

3. The test sample will be preserved for one month only.”

¶284

This Tribunal is concerned with the fact that as to whether the water from the Kerwa or the Birla Mandir supplied to the city contains any microplastics or not and the chemical examination report conducted by the Department of Chemical Engineering, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, discloses that presently the microplastic is undetectable and not found in the report. Thus, matter with regard to lake is not of very serious concern.

¶285

In view of the above facts, we direct the Respondents as follows:-

¶286

(1) The State PCB and the Municipal Corporation, Bhopal, are directed to periodically monitor the water quality to the recognised lab or the Department of Chemical Engineering, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, with regard to the availability of microplastics every year and to take every precaution in view of the health problems of the citizens.

¶287

O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

¶288

49

¶289

(2) The CPCB is directed to continue the studies comprising members of the CPCB, ICMR, Central Institute of Petrochemical Engineering and Technology (CIPET), NCSCM, and any other expert institutions as required under the nodal coordination of CPCB and such studies and recommendations/suggestions may cover standards for safe environment, remedial steps to reduce the menace of microplastic and addressing other incidental issues.

¶290

(3) The State Government/Secretary Environment, may consider to refer the matter to the researchers to the Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, for undertaking targeted, well designed and quality control investigative studies to better understand the sources and occurrence of microplastics in fresh water and drinking water, the efficacy of different treatment processes and combinations of processes and the significance of the potential return of microplastics to the environment from treatment waste streams including the application of sludge biosolids to agricultural land.

¶291

(4) Measures should also be taken by the State Government to better manage plastics and reduce the use of plastics where possible, to minimize plastic and microplastic pollution despite the low human health risk posed by exposure to microplastics

¶292

50

¶293

O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

¶294

in drinking-water, as such actions can confer other benefits to the environment and human well-being.

¶295

(5) A study is required to be taken by the CPCB for prescribing sampling, analysis and standards of microplastics in water with regard to permissible quantity and effects on human consumption exceeding the permissible quantity.

¶296

(6) However, the Department of Chemical Engineering, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, has examined and reported that microplastics in Kerwa WTP and Birla Mandir WTP filter water is undetectable, thus no further action is required to be taken by this Tribunal.

¶297

With these observations, the Original Application No.271/2024(CZ) stands disposed of .

¶298

[A copy of this order be communicated to the Principal Secretary, Environment, Principal Secretary, Water Resources Department, Madhya Pradesh, State Wetland Authority, Member Secretary, State PCB, Municipal Commissioner, Bhopal & District Collector, Bhopal, for information and necessary action.]

¶299

Sheo Kumar Singh, JM

¶300

Sudhir Kumar Chaturvedi, EM

¶301

08^th September, 2025, Original Application No.271/2024(CZ) AK

¶302

O.A. No.271/2024(CZ) Newspaper Article dated 19^th December, 2024, published in Dainik Bhaskar Hindi titled as “Bade Chote Talab Aur VIP Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic” Vs. State of Madhya Pradesh & Ors.

¶303

51

Newspaper Article Dated 19TH December 2024 Published in Dainik Bhashakr Hindi Titled as Bade Chote Talab Aur Vip Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic v. State of Madhya Pradesh

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Newspaper Article Dated 19TH December 2024 Published in Dainik Bhashakr Hindi Titled as Bade Chote Talab Aur Vip Kshetron Me Bhi Saplai Wale Pani Me Microplastic v. State of Madhya Pradesh

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