Bombay HC Orders BMC to Clean Heritage Sites' Garbage in 7 Days
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Bombay High Court has directed the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to remove garbage around Mumbai's heritage sites within seven days, warning ward officers of responsibility. This comes amid concerns over the effectiveness of the 'Swachh Mumbai, Sundar Mumbai' campaign and broader waste mismanagement in the city.
Background
The court was hearing petitions related to pollution and health issues near the Kanjurmarg dumping ground, but expanded its concern to citywide waste management. The BMC's cleanliness campaign was launched to improve urban sanitation, but the court expressed doubt about its implementation.
Key facts
Bombay High Court gave BMC 7 days to clear garbage around heritage sites.
Ward officers will be held responsible if conditions do not improve.
The court expressed 'grave doubt' about the effectiveness of the 'Swachh Mumbai, Sundar Mumbai' campaign.
Garbage was noted near Bombay City Civil Court, Bombay High Court, Institute of Science, Rajabai Tower, and Horniman Circle.
The court observed garbage heaps on Western Express Highway and other public spaces.
The problem is not limited to Kanjurmarg landfill but reflects poor waste management citywide.
The court directed Maharashtra Pollution Control Board to strictly enforce environmental laws.
Next hearing scheduled for August 12.
Senior advocate Anil Sakhare assured the court of immediate action by BMC.
Prelims pointers
- Bombay High Court: High Court of Judicature at Bombay
- Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC): local civic body for Mumbai
- Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB): statutory authority for environmental regulation
- Kanjurmarg dumping ground: landfill site in Mumbai
- Heritage sites: Rajabai Tower, Horniman Circle, Institute of Science
- Swachh Mumbai, Sundar Mumbai: BMC cleanliness campaign
- Judicial review: power of courts to review administrative actions
Mains angles
- Discuss the role of judiciary in ensuring environmental compliance and urban governance.
- Examine the challenges of solid waste management in Indian cities, with special reference to heritage sites.
- Critically analyze the effectiveness of cleanliness campaigns like Swachh Bharat Mission in urban areas.
- Evaluate the accountability mechanisms for municipal authorities in maintaining public hygiene.