National Green Tribunal
News Item Published In Dainik Bhaskar ... vs M.P Pollution Control Board on 4 April, 2025
Item No. 02
BEFORE THE NATIONAL GREEN TRIBUNAL
CENTRAL ZONE BENCH, BHOPAL
(Through Video Conferencing)
Original Application No. 214/2024(CZ)
(O.A. No. 1076/2024-PB)
News Item published in Dainik Bhaskar
dated 13.08.2024 titled ^^lkaosj jksM ds 53
bykdksa ds Hkwty esa feys ?kkrd jlk;u 400 m|ksxksa
ij 'kd] uksfVl 50 dks dkjZokbZ flQZ 7 ij**
Suo moto....
Versus
1 The Madhya Pradesh State Pollution Respondent No. 1
Control Board,
Through its Member Secretary, E-5, Main
Road No.3, Ekant Park, Arera Colony,
Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
2 The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Respondent No. 2
Climate Change (MoEF&CC)
through its Regional Office, Integrated
Regional Office, E-5, Kendriya Parayavaran
Bhawan, E-5, Arera Colony, Link Road-3,
Ravishankar Nagar, Bhopal- 462016.
3 The District Magistrate- Indore, Respondent No. 3
Office of the Collector Indore, District-
Indore (M.P.)
4 The Central Pollution Control Board, Respondent No. 4
Through its Member Secretary, District-
Bhopal (M.P.)
5 The Member Secretary, Madhya Pradesh Respondent No. 5
State Ground Water Authority, Bhopal (M.P.)
6 The Regional Director, Respondent No. 6
Central Ground Water Board, North Central
Region, Block-1, 4th Floor, Paryawas
Bhawan, Arera Hills, Jail Road, Bhopal,
Madhya Pradesh
7 The Principal Secretary, Respondent No. 7
Urban Administration and Development
Department, Shivaji Nagar, Bhopal, Madhya
Pradesh
8 The Commissioner, Respondent No. 8
Municipal Corporation, Indore, District-
Indore (M.P.)
1
OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
COUNSELS FOR APPLICANT(S):
None.
COUNSELS FOR RESPONDENT(S):
Mr. Yadvendra Yadav, Adv.
Mr. Prashant M. Harne, Adv.
(with Mr. Mehul Bhardwaj, Adv.)
Mr. Gigi George, Adv.
Mr. Dharamvir Sharma, Adv.
Ms. Parul Bhadoria, Adv.
(with Mr. Pranjal Pandey, Adv.)
Mr. Om Shankar Shrivastava, Adv.
CORAM:
HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE SHEO KUMAR SINGH, JUDICIAL MEMBER
HON'BLE DR. VIJAY KULKARNI, EXPERT MEMBER
Date of completion of hearing and reserving of order : 02.04.2025
Date of uploading of order on website : 04.04.2025
JUDGMENT
1. This original application is registered suo-motu on the basis of the news item titled "स ांवेर रोड़ के 53 इल कोां के भूजल में ममले घ तांक रस यन 400 उद्योगोां पर शक, नोमिस 50 को, क रर व ई मसर्र 7 पर" appearing in Dainik Bhaskar dated 13.08.2024.
2. The matter relates to dangerous polluted red colour water coming out from handpumps and borewells of Sanwer Road Industrial area in Indore (M.P). Ground water in this area contained large quantity of sulphate, kjeldahl nitrogen, magnesium. In June 2023 M.P.PCB had carried out sampling at Kumedi, Bardari, Dhankhedi, Shakkarkhedi, Niranjanpur along with 53 locations in an area of 20 km for one year and prepared a report of total 636 samples where 3 lakh people are living. As per the report TDS level in water ranged from 2000 to 3600 mg/1 whereas water is fit for drinking at 600 mg/l. Due to drinking of this polluted water, the local residents are suffering from allergy, hair fall, bone, teeth and intestinal diseases. It is reported that there are 400 industries mainly 2 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors. electroplating, chemical, confectionary and Pharma units using acid in large quantities responsible for polluted water, out of them action has been taken only on 7 industries. Several investigation carried out with respect to discharge of waste water in to Narwar and Bhaurasala drains and Kanh river and notices have been served to 50 industries for closure and 7 have been sealed. Maximum sample were collected from public boring, handpumps and wells which indicated high level of pollution of ground water between Ramnagar Sector A, F and Kumedi village.
3. After taking the cognizance, the State PCB was directed to submit the factual and action taken report and in compliance of the order the members of the State PCB visited the site and after taking sample and its analysis submitted the report with the following facts :-
(A) Brief Note on Industrial Area Sanwer Road, Indore :
1. The Sanwer Road Industrial Area is located in North-West of the Indore City and existing since long back This industrial area is basically developed for small scale industries. Earlier it was away from city area but now it is very close to Indore City. There are 06 sectors in Sanwer Road Industrial Area namely Sector-A, B, C, D, E and F. The total area of this industrial area is about 77 hectares.
Google location map of Sanwer Road, Industrial Area showing Narvar Nallah, Bhorasala Nallah and River Kanh is enclosed as Annexure-1 for reference.
2. There are about 548 Industries in above sectors. Out of these industries 127 are Red, 176 are Orange and 245 are Green category. Out of 548 industries 217 water polluting in nature.
3. The status of pollution control measures in the water polluting industries located in different Sectors of Industrial Area Sanwer Road is given below :
3
OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
S. Sector No. of Red Orange Green Total Total Number Number
No Water Industrial Waste of Units of Units
Polluting Water water having Installe
Industries Consumption generation Member d ETP
(in KLD) (in KLD) ship of
CETP
1 A 19 7 9 3 676 322.65 18 18
2 B 12 3 3 6 53.6 31.4 12 7
3 C 36 17 5 14 390.3 199.1 36 23
4 D 16 7 8 1 67.85 34.3 16 13
5 E 67 16 19 32 478.72 303.792 67 38
6 F 58 18 14 26 445.1 274.9 58 36
7 Kumh 8 02 04 02 113 74 7 8
edi
216 70 62 84 2224.57 1240.14 214 143
Most of the industries located in the Industrial Area are small scale category. As per the details given in above table, following may be observed :
i. Out of 216 water-polluting industries of the Industrial Area 143 industries have installed effluent treatment plants at their premises and send the treated effluent to CETP for further treatment and disposal.
ii. 73 units are the tiny units in which wastewater generation is very small in quantity and they have not installed their own ETP at their premises and send their wastewater to CETP directly for treatment and disposal.
iii. Out of 216 units, 214 Units are members of the CETP and 02 units are not the member of CETP. Out of 02 units, one unit has ZLD system including MEE and ATFD and other unit has complete ETP and reuse the treated effluent for gardening within premises.
4. Municipal Corporation Indore (IMC) has installed Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) of capacity 4 MLD in 4 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
Sector-F for treatment of industrial effluent. As explained above in para-3, 214 units of Industrial Area are the member of CETP. IMC has installed pipeline network for collection of wastewater in Sector-C,E & F and from other sectors wastewater is transported via tankers to the CETP. (B) Status of discharge of wastewater into Narvar Nallah/Bhorasala Nallah :
1. Narvar Nallah passes through Industrial Area, which comes from up-stream of the industrial area from Chhota Bangarda. The nallah carry domestic wastewater of Chhota Bangarda and other nearby colonies of the city also.
2. To prevent flow of wastewater of the nallah to go towards Kanh River, an intersecting weir has been constructed by the IMC in Sector-F and wastewater is diverted to towards CETP. Overflow of the weir, flows in the Nallah downstream, which ultimately meets to the River Kanh at Village-Dhankhedi.
3. Another nallah named Bhorasala Nallah also passes through the Industrial Area and Kumedi and meets to the Narvar Nallah at downstream of Village-Kumedi. It also carry wastewater from the Industrial Area and nearby colonies, which ultimately meets to Kanh River via Narvar Nallah.
4. As stated here in above, all the water-polluting industries are having ETP, thus the industries are primarily treating their wastewater at their respective premises and thereafter sending their primary treated wastewater to CETP for further treatment but a significant quantity is also found in the Narvar and Bhorasala Nallah, which seems there is discharge of effluent from CETP and some industries located in industrial area.
5. IMC, Indore has laid effluent collection pipelines in Sector- 5
OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
C, Sector-E and Sector-F. The Industries of Sector-A Sector- B and Sector-D are sending their waste through tankers to CETP. Laying of remaining effluent pipeline network for collection of wastewater from industrial units located at Sector-A, B & D has not been completed so far by IMC so far and from those areas wastewater is collected via tankers. Pipeline was found damaged at many places from where wastewater seepage and discharge take place which meets to nallah. There is possibility of discharge of wastewater by tanker operators also.
Domestic wastewater from nearby colonies along Narvar Nallah and Bhorasala Nallah is also meeting into nallah. Domestic wastewater of the settlements within industrial area is directly discharging into the nallah, which is in significant quantity. No collection and treatment facility has been installed by the IMC for domestic wastewater of nearby colonies, commercial complexes and settlement within industrial area, which is also a reason of pollution in the nallah and River.
(C) Earlier direction issued by Hon'ble NGT (PB) :
1. Hon'ble National Green Tribunal, Principal Bench New Delhi has registered Original Application No. 229/2022 in reference of news item published in Dainik Bhaskar dated 10/01/2022 titled "Ground Water of Sanwer Road Industrial Area polluted by dangerous chemicals coming out of factories"
Hon'ble NGT, Principal Bench, New Delhi had constituted Joint Committee comprised of State Pollution Control Board (SPCB), Collector Indore, Municipal Commissioner Indore and Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) Bhopal and directed to visit the site and submit factual & action taken report. Reply was submitted by the Joint Committee and Honb'ble National Green Tribunal, Principal Bench, New Delhi has disposed the case with following directions on dated 06/07/2022 :6
OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
I. All water polluting industries shall ensure to treat their effluent within premises and sent to CSETP for further treatment. Flow meters shall be installed in all the units and get verified by MPPCB and IMC.
II. CSETP IMC shall maintain the record of all industries sending primarily treated wastewater and submit to MPPCB and MPPCB shall verify with the wastewater generation from the industries.
III. IMC shall complete the laying of pipeline for conveyance of wastewater to CSETP at the earliest and ensure that whole quantity of wastewater from industries be treated properly.
IV. IMC shall ensure interception of Bhorasala Nallah at MR-10 and send wastewater to CSETP.
V. IMC shall install Sewage Treatment Plant for treatment of domestic sewage generating from colonies located along the Narvar Nallah at upstream of the industrial area at Chhota Bangarda.
VI. All industries of Sanwer Industrial Area those are extracting ground water without NOC, shall mandatorily obtained the NOC from CGWA as per CGWA new guideline.
2. Regional Office Indore has taken action for compliance of above aforesaid Orders of Hon'ble NGT as follows :
I. Detail survey of industries was conducted by the Regional Office to ensure the operation of ETPs and installation of flow meters. Flow meters in most of the units have been found installed and ETP were found operating. The units where ETP were not found operating, action under provisions of water act have been taken time to time.7
OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
II. CETP has been inspected time to time and details of wastewater treatment have been verified.
III. IMC has not completed the laying of pipeline in Sectors A,B & D of the industrial area, however Regional Office Indore has issued letter to the Indore Municipal Corporation vide letters no. 1708 dated 12/07/2022, no. 2406 dated 22/09/2022, no. 2214 dated 20/06/2023, no. 2499 dated 24/07/2023 to ensure compliance of the directions.
IV. IMC has not installed STP at Chhota Bangarda and not taken any action for interception of wastewater of Bhorasala Nallah to divert wastewater into CETP.
V. The Regional Office has informed to the industries to obtain NOC of CGWA as per requirement.
(D) Action taken after news item titled ^^lkaosj jksM ds 53 bykdksa ds Hkwty esa feys ?kkrd jlk;u 400 m|ksxksa ij 'kd] uksfVl 50 dks dkjZokbZ flQZ 7 ij**appearing in Dainik Bhaskar Indore Edition dated 12.08.2024 :
1. News item was published on dated 12/09/2024 in Dainik Bhaskar Indore regarding presence of hazardous chemicals in ground water of Sanwr Road Industrial Area. It was also stated that M.P. Pollution Control Board has conducted a study of ground water during 2023-24 and on the basis of report a news item was published.
2. It is herewith stated that after the directions issued by the Hon'ble NGT in case no. 229/2022 (Suo-motu registered on the basis of another news item published during that time) and the case was related with ground water quality of Sanwer Road Industrial 8 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
Area. Therefore, to assess the ground water quality of Sanwer Road Industrial Area along with Narvar Nallah upto Village- Dhankhedi where its joins to River Kanh, a 04 season study has been conducted by the Regional Office Indore from April- 2023 to March-2024. Monthly samples of ground water at 46 locations (Total samples - 552 during whole year) have been collected. Samples of Narvar nallah and Bhorasala nallah water and Kanh River water were collected. Total samples of nallah water collected were 60 and that of Kanh River 24. Total 636 samples has been collected. Copy of Study Repot is enclosed as Annexure-2.
3. News item dated 12/08/2024 was published on the basis of above study report, therefore, it is necessary to mention herewith brief of conclusion of the study report for reference which is as follows :
I. Conclusion part of the Study Report is again enclosed as Annexure-3 II. As per the Study report, heavy/toxic metals were not found in the ground water of the area. All parameters except Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) were found within prescribed standards. Dissolved Solids (TDS) in ground water was found between 575 mg/L to 3983 mg/L. III. TDS value of 575 mg/L found in the month of Apirl 2023 in sample Near Arvindo Hospital Village Bhorasala. The highest values found in Hinglaj Mata Mandir, Kumhedi 3972 mg/L in the month of May 2023. Maximum & minimum concentration of TDS in ground water at different locations may be observed 9 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
in Annexure-4.
IV. Most of the ground water samples were found within the range of 500-2000 mg/L as prescribed in Drinking water standards IS 10500:2012 except some samples of sector A, Sector E, Sector F and Kumedi Village ground water samples exceed permissible limit in absence of alternative source which is 2000 mg/L in certain months i.e. April, May, June 2023.
It is found that the maximum value of TDS is observed in the month of April to June i.e. summer season. Reason of higher TDS may be due to the ground water table goes deep down so that concentration of principle ions contributing to dissolved solids (Carbonate, Bicarbonate, Chloride, Sulphates, Nitrate, Silicate, Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, And Magnesium) are increased. So in the summer, The TDS concentration found at higher level in ground water.
V. Copy of Indian Standards for Drinking water IS 10500:2012 is enclosed as Annexure-5. for reference. As per drinking water standards prescribed limit for TDS are 500 mg/L (acceptable limit) and 2000 mg/L (permissible limit in absence of alternate source), therefore, as per study report, ground water of Sanwer Road Industrial Area and Kumedi is not suitable for drinking without treatment.
4. The Regional Office has also conducted ground water sampling in month of August-2024 in Kumedi Village, which is located at downstream of Sanwer Road 10 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
Industrial Area and adjacent to the nallah. Water samples from 14 tube-wells have been collected. Analysis report of water samples in tabulated form is enclosed as Annexure-6. As per analysis report, TDS in the ground water of Kumedi Village, was found in the range of 1050 mg/L to 1850 mg/L, which is exceeding the acceptable limit for drinking water i.e. 500 mg/L but within the permissible limit in absence of alternate source i.e. 2000 mg/L. As per analysis repot no heavy/toxic metal were found in the ground water.
During survey in Month of August 24, It is found that ground water of 01 tubewell located in front of M/s Sachin Kirana Store, Village-Kumedi was observed slightly brown. The tube-well is located adjacent to the Bhorasala Nallah, which carry wastewater from the industrial area and domestic wastewater of nearby townships and due to seepage of nallah water into the tube-well, water become slightly brown. The tube-well water is not suitable for drinking, bathing etc., therefore proposal to close down the tube-well was sent to the Indore Municipal Corporation vide letter no. 2708 dated 29/08/2024. Copy of the letter is enclosed as Annexure-7. for perusal.
5. Ground water samples of tubewells at 57 locations, located within about 10 kilometers from the industrial area were collected on dated 04-06 September 2024. Analysis report in tabulated form is enclosed as Annexure-8. As per the repot, it may be observed that TDS has been found in the range 400 mg/L to 1900 mg/L. Out of 57 samples, TDS in 08 samples was found within 500 mg/L but in remaining 49 samples TDS is exceeding more than 500 mg/L. This shows that TDS in ground water in the area is more than 500 mg/L due to geographic strata.
11 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
(E) Action Against Violator Industries :
1. Board Officers has visited industries time to time and Action has been initiated against violator industries.
Showcause Notices and Closure Order has been issued to violator industries along with that Court case also filled against violator industries.
2. Action taken from 01/07/2023 onward : During last 01 year, approx 284 inspections have been conducted and 53 industries were found violating the provisions of Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974 and those 53 industries have been issued closure notices under Water Act. Out of above 53 industries 35 industries were found under continuous violation and therefore, closure order under the Water Act for 35 industries have been issued. Criminal Cases under provisions of the Water Act has been filled against 16 industries during last one year. It is mentioned herewith that total 53 criminal cases have been filled before the Court of law against the industries located at Indore. List of industries against which criminal cases has been filled is enclosed as Annexure-9 . Summary of action taken is as follows :
Notices Closure Order Court Case Total cases U/s 33A Issued U/s filled during pending of the 33A of the Aug-Sept. before the Water Act Water Act 2024 Court of law against the industries 53 35 16 53 In addition to above, show-cause notices have also been issued to the industries, to ensure compliance of consent conditions and not to discharge any effluent into nearby nallah.
12 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
(F) Action Against Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) :
1. As mentioned in above in this report, CETP has been established and being operated by IMC. Pipeline network for collection of wastewater from Indusrial Area has also been laid by the IMC. Wastewater from the areas where pipeline has not been laid so far, wastewater is collected via tankers. Therefore, it is clear that IMC has taken responsibility for collection, treatment and disposal of wastewater from the Sanwer Road Industrial Area Indore.
2. IMC have been informed time to time to repair and maintain the damaged pipelines from where wastewater was found discharge into nallah. Details of letters sent to the IMC is as Annexure-13.
After news item published on dated 12/08/2024, the IMC has been informed to take action for improvement and repairing of pipelines, to install facility for treatment of domestic wastewater of nearby areas and ensure not to discharge any effluent into nallah and River. Copy of letter is enclosed as Annexure-14.
3. Criminal case against the IMC and CETP operator under provision of Section 24, 25, 44 & 47 of the Water Act has been filled before the Court of law on dated 17/01/2024, which is pending before the Court of law.
(G) Main reasons for affecting ground water quality:-
1. Industrial area Sanwer Road was established about 60 years ago. At present, more than 500 industries, most of which are small scale category. Due to the blockage and damage of the pipelines laid by the 13 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
Municipal Corporation for collection of wastewater from industries to CETP, leakage of wastewater water takes place, which ultimately reaches to nallahs. This is one of the reason of pollution into nallah and Kanh River and also ground water.
2. Discharge of wastewater by defaulter industries outside their premises into the nallah and industrial area as well.
3. It is also pertinent to mentioned here that the land application of the treated effluent for long time was taken place by the industries in the past, when CETP was not installed.
4. Due to the low capacity of the pipeline laid for transporting wastewater in the industrial area, the waste water leaks and gets mixed in the nallah through the drains.
5. Discharge of untreated sewage/domestic wastewater from the residential colonies located at upstream of the industrial area into Narvar Nallah and Bhorasala Nallah.
6. The polluted water of the commercial area and illegal colonies situated in the industrial area gets discharged into the nallah without treatment.
7. Due to the lack of STP system in the residential colonies situated around the Narwar nallah, untreated polluted water gets discharged into the nallah, which has also affected the ground water.
8. The polluted water of the new colonies and townships developed around Sri Aurobindo Hospital 14 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
gets mixed in the Bhaurasla nallah without treatment, which finally gets mixed in the Narwar nallah and then gets mixed in the Kanh river.
9. Domestic wastewater from Niranjanpur, Mangaliya, Tulsi Nagar, colonies/townships around bypass and rural areas is released into Kanh river through local drains without any treatment, which creates pollution in the river.
(H) Conclusion :
1. TDS in ground water of Sanwer Road Industrial Area has been found more than 500 mg/L, which is acceptable limit for drinking water.
2. No toxic/heavy metal were found in ground water of the Industrial Area in the study.
3. Higher TDS may be due to long time land application of treated industrial wastewater in past, when CETP was not installed.
4. Discharge of wastewater and leakage/seepage in pipelines transporting wastewater to CETP is also one of the main reason of pollution in the nallahs and Kanh River.
5. Discharge of domestic wastewater from industrial area and nearby residential colonies in the nallahs also add the pollution load in the nallah and Kanh River.
6. TDS in the nearby areas of Indore has also been found between 500 mg/L to 1900 mg/L in 49 samples out of 57 samples taken from tubewells from different villages, which indicate higher TDS in ground water due to underground geological strata of the area.
15 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
(I) Measures to Improve Ground Water Quality :
For improvement of ground water quality of the industrial area & Kumhedi village, following actions may be taken :
1. All water polluting industries shall ensure to treat their effluent within premises and sent to CETP for further treatment.
2. IMC shall complete the laying of pipeline for conveyance of wastewater to CETP at the earliest and ensure that whole quantity of wastewater from industries be treated properly. Pipeline capacity should also be increased to cater whole quantity of wastewater and to prevent any leakages and seepage.
3. The IMC should upgrade CETP by installing ZLD system comprised of Reverse Osmosis (RO), Multi Effect Evaporator (MEE) and Agitated Thin Film Dryer (ATFD) and ensure treated effluent to reuse/recycle by the industries in cooling, boilers, washing, plantation etc.
4. The IMC should install one more CETP near Kumedi to treat the wastewater generating from industries located in Kumedi and nearby area.
5. The IMC should install online app to keep keen vigil on waste water generators & those are sending waste water through tankers.
6. The IMC should explore the possibility of making nallah leak proof in the length of industrial area..
7. Sewage Treatment Plants (STP) of adequate capacity should be installed for treatment of wastewater reaching to Narvar Nallah, Bhorasala Nallah and 16 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
Kanh River.
8. The IMC shall install rainwater harvesting systems at Kumedi Village."
4. The area is mainly occupied by the lava flows belonging to the Deccan Traps locally known as Malwa Traps. An isolated patch of alluvium also occurs along the Kshipra and Kanh rivers. The Deccan Traps, which are the predominant rocks in the district, have wide variation in the water bearing properties of the different units constituting them. The massive basalts their weathered zones and secondary porosities and the vesicular basalts with their minutely connected and partially filled vesicles play an important role in determining the occurrence, movement and storage of ground water. These invariably form potential aquifers. The red-bole is non productive. In the alluvial areas, the occurrence of ground water is governed by sand/clay ratio. The sand beds generally form good aquifers, but due to the limited thickness and erratic occurrence in the form of lenses, the ground water structures in them are poor to moderately productive.
The main source of recharge to the basaltic aquifer in the district is rainfall. To some extent, recharge also takes place by influent seepage from the streams and their tributaries. Due to low permeabilities of basalts and undulating topography, the run-off is very high. This restricts the recharge to ground water body. This is reason for large scale seasonal fluctuation in the water level of the wells tapping trappean formation. Ground Water in the Deccan Traps in Indore district occurs mostly under water table conditions. The nature of topography, extent and depth of weathering, distribution of secondary porosity in the form of fractures and joints and the occurrence and disposition of vesicular units govern the movement of ground water.
17 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
The ground water occurrence is mainly divided into 3 zones viz.
1. Surface zone - This zone ranges from ground level to about 5.0 meters, it is poor in availability of water.
2. Intermediate weathered aquifer zone This zone is located at a depth of 15 to 40 m. though a potential zone but overexploited and dries down in every summer.
3. Confined aquifer zone It is most potential and prominent water bearing zone and is found up to the depth of 135 meters. Most of the city depends on this zone for water supply through tube wells during shortage of piped water supply.
5. A project report (2023-24) for evaluation and mapping of ground water quality along Narvar Nallah & Bhorasala Nallah Meeting River kanh at Dhankhedi was conducted under the project head Mr. A.A. Misra, the then Member Secretary and submitted the report dealing with the discussion and analytical data after study for assessment of the groundwater quality near the area and to determine the status and trend of groundwater quality and to ascertain whether the prescribed groundwater quality standards are violating and to monitor water quality of different sites as Indore. The report says the different parameters as follows :-
4.3.4 pH "The pH value ranges between 6.66 and 8.36. The lowest value is observed in H .D Wire i.e. 6.66, whereas higher pH values were observed in samples Mouni Baba Aashram i.e. 8.36 . The lowest value is observed in 18 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
Bhorasala Nalla Near Avantika CNG i.e. 7.05 And Highest Values were observed in Narwar Nalla at dhankhedi i.e. 8.72. The highest pH value is observed in river water at Dhankhedi Before Confluence of nalla to River Kanh i.e. 8.03 and in river water at Dhankhedi After Confluence of nalla to River Kanh i.e 8.17. All the water samples showed good pH values in between 6.5 - 8.5 as prescribed by Indian Standards for Drinking Water.
4.3.5 Turbidity Turbidity is measured in Nephelometric Turbidity Unit (NTU). The Turbidity ranges between 0.2 to 10.6, The lowest values were observed in TW at H D Wire and Avantika Gas Station i.e. 0.2 and the highest value were observed in TW at Balaji Dying and Sevenstar Polytex i.e. 10.6. All nalla and river Water samples turbidity range found higher than permissible limit.. The ground water samples showed good Turbidity range between 1 - 5 as prescribed by Indian Standards for Drinking Water. 4.3.6 Electrical Conductivity Electrical conductivity (EC) is a useful tool to evaluate the purity of water. Minimum EC is recorded in TW of Near Arvindo Hospital 891 µ mhos/cm and the Maximum EC at TW of Hinglaj Mata Mandir 6946 µmhos /cm. In general the EC for nearly all samples is above 1600 µmhos/cm. The Maximum EC in Nalla Water were Found at Nalla Near Avantika CNG 3670 µmhos /cm. The Maximum EC in River Water were Found at Dhankhedi After Confluence to River Kanh (1768 µmhos /cm). 19 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
4.3.7 Chloride The lowest concentration of chlorides was recorded in Near Arvindo Hospital Bhorasala 96.42 mg/l. The highest concentration of chlorides was recorded in Mouni Baba Aashram 964.24 mg/l. The highest value is observed in Bhorasala Nalla at Avantika CNG i.e. 605.65 mg/l. The highest value is observed in river water at Dhankhedi After Confluence to River Kanh i.e. 399.87mg/l and in river water. High chloride content in groundwater can be attributing to lack of underground drainage system and bad maintenance of environment around the sources. Chloride salts in excess of 100 mg/L give salty taste to water. When combined with calcium and magnesium, may increase the corrosive activity of water. It is recommended that chloride content should not exceed 250 mg/l.
4.3.8 Alkalinity The values of alkalinity in the ground water samples varied from 200 - 790 mg/L. The lowest values of alkalinity in the TW Water at Bhagat Singh Nagar Niranjanpur is 200 mg/l. . The highest value of alkalinity in the TW Water at MP Beer is 790 mg/l. All Nalla Water samples Alkalinity range found higher than (<600) permissible limit. The Highest alkalinity value found in River Water sample Before Confluence of nalla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi 530 mg/L. 4.3.9 Total Hardness Hardness may be considered as a physical or chemical parameter of water. Total Hardness of the analyzed ground water samples varies from 340 to 1350 mg/L. The lowest values of Hardness in the TW Water at Kushwah 20 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
Nagar is 340 mg/l. The highest value of Hardness in the TW Water at Ajmera Harbals is 1350 mg/l. The Highest Hardness value found in Bhorasala Nalla Near Avantika CNG is 960 mg/L. The Highest Hardness value found in River Water sample After Confluence of nalla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi 680 mg/L. The Hardness is due to the calcium and magnesium salts dissolved in water.
4.3.10 Calcium Hardness Calcium hardness contributes the greatest portion of the hardness occurring in natural waters. The concentration of calcium hardness varies from 190 mg/L to 950 mg/L. Being minimum for TW Water at Kushwah Nagar is 190 mg/l. and maximum value were obtained in the TW Water at H.D.Wires is 950 mg/l.
In all the nalla samples Highest Calcium Hardness value found in Bhorasalah Nalla Near Awantika CNG is 590 mg/L. The Highest Calcium Hardness value found in River Water sample Before Confluence of nlla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi 480 mg/L. 4.3.11 Magnesium Hardness Magnesium hardness concentration varies from 80 to 610 mg/L . The lowest values of Mg Hardness in the TW Water at Shankar Chemical is 50mg/l. .The highest value of Mg Hardness in the TW Water at Tirupati Colony is 570 mg/l. The Highest Mg Hardness value found in Bhorasalah Nalla Near Avantika CNG is 390 mg/L. The Highest Mg Hardness value found in River Water sample Before Confluence of nalla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi 280 mg/L. 4.3.12 Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen concentration varies from 3.92 to 16.24 mg/L . The lowest values of Total Kjehldahl Nitrogen in the TW Water at Near Arvindo Hospital is 3.92 mg/l. . The highest value of Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen in the TW Water at 21 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
Ajmera Herbal and Indogerman is 16.24 mg/l. The Highest Total Kjehldahl Nitrogen value found in Narwar Nalla at Nandbagh Colony is 28.01 mg/L. The Highest Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen value found in River Water sample Before Confluence of nalla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi 10.08 mg/L. 4.3.13 Total Solids The Total Solids (TS) of the ground water samples ranged from 580 mg/L to 3983 mg/L. The lowest TDS value were found in Near Arvindo Hospital vill. Bhorasala 580 mg/L. The Highest TDS value were found in Hinglaj Mata Mandi Tw 3983 mg/L. In nalla water highest TS value were Found in Bhwarsala nalla near Avantika CNG is 3040 mg/L. In River water highest TS value were Found in River Water Before Confluence of Nalla to River Kanh 1183 mg/L. 4.3.14 Total Dissolved Solids The Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) of the water samples ranged from 575 mg/L to 3972 mg/L. TDS value of 575 mg/L is shown by sample Near Arvindo Hospital vill. Bhorasala. The highest values found in Hinglaj mata mandir 3972 mg/L. The Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) of the Nalla water samples ranged from 890 mg/L to 2870 mg/L. TDS value of 890 mg/L is shown by sample Narwar Nalla at Dhankhedi and the Highest Value found in Nalla at Avantika CNG 2870 mg/L. The Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) of the River water samples ranged from 618 mg/L to 1150 mg/L. TDS value of 618 mg/L is shown by sample Before Confluence of nalla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi.
All of the samples exceed Acceptability of 500 mg/L for drinking water as per Indian Standards. Few samples of sector A, Sector E, Sector F and Kumedi 22 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
Village samples exceed Permissibility of 2000 mg/L for drinking water as per Indian Standards. In drinking water total dissolved solids are made up primarily of inorganic salts with small concentration of organic matter. Contributory ions are mainly carbonate, bicarbonate, chloride, sulfate, nitrate, sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Major contribution to total dissolves solids in water is the natural contact with rocks and soil with minor contribution from pollution in general, including urban runoff.
4.3.15 Suspended Solids The Suspended Solids (SS) of the ground water samples ranged from 2 mg/L to 51 mg/L. The lowest suspended solids value were found in Tirupati Colony 2 mg/L. The highest suspended solids value were found in Jai Bhawani Nagar 51 mg/L. The Suspended Solids (SS) of the nalla water samples ranged from 30 mg/L to 263 mg/L. The lowest suspended solids value were found in Nawar Nalla at Nandbagh Colony 30 mg/L. The highest suspended solids value were found in Narwar Nalla at Ram Nagar 263 mg/L. The Suspended Solids (SS) of the River water samples ranged from 8 mg/L to 80 mg/L. The lowest suspended solids value were found in River Water Before Confluence Nalla to River Kanh 8 mg/L. The highest suspended solids value were found in River Water Before Confluence of Nalla to River Kanh 8 mg/L 4.3.16 Biochemical Oxygen Demand The Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) values obtained for the ground water samples are low ranging between 0.4 - 14 mg/L. The lowest BOD value of 0.4 mg/L is shown by sample near Arvindo Hospital Vill. Bhorasala. The Highest BOD Value is shown by Avantika Nagar . The Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) values obtained in nalla water samples were ranging between 16 - 60 mg/L. The lowest BOD value of 16 mg/L is shown by 23 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
sample Nalla at Ram Nagar. The Highest value of BOD were Found in Narwar Nalla at dhankhedi is 60 mg/L. The Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) values obtained between 3 -
16 mg/L. The lowest value of BOD were Found in Before Confluence Nalla to River Kanh 3 mg/L. The highest value of BOD were found in After Confluence of Nalla to River Kanh 16 mg/L 4.3.17 Chemical Oxygen Demand The Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) values obtained for the ground water samples are ranging between 6 - 60 mg/L. The lowest COD value of 6 mg/L is shown by sample near Arvindo Hospital Bhorasala. The highest COD value of 60 mg/L is shown by sample Avantika Nagar.
The Highest COD value found in Nalla at Ram Nagar 220 mg/L and the lowest value of COD were found 68 mg/L in Narwar Nalla at Dhankhedi. The Highest COD value found in river water sample After Confluence to River Kanh at Dhankhedi 64 mg/L. The Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) values obtained for the River water samples are ranging between 40 - 90 mg/L. The lowest value of COD were Found in Before Confluence of nalla to river Kanh is 40 mg/L and the highest value of COD were found in after confluence of nalla to River kanh is 90 mg/L. 4.3.18 Ammonia The Ammonia values obtained for the Ground water samples are ranging between 0.002 - 0.278 mg/L. The lowest values of Ammonia in the TW Water were found at Rini Life Science 0.002 mg/l. The highest value of Nitrate in the TW Water were found at Satya Mitra Seva Sansthan is 0.278 mg/l. All these values are less than 24 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
the desirable limit of prescribed by Indian Standards for Drinking Water (i.e. 0.5 mg/L). The Highest Ammonia value found in Nalla at Nandbagh Colony 2.626 mg/L. The Highest Ammonia value found in River Water sample Before Confluence of nalla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi 0.498 mg/l.
4.3.19 Ntrite The Ntrite values obtained for the Ground water samples are ranging between 0.007 - 0.55 mg/L. The lowest value of Nitrite were found in TW Water at Hanuman Mandir Vill. Kumedi is 0.007 mg/l. The highest value of Nitrite were found in TW Water at Limbodiya Tent House Vill. Kumedi is 0.55 mg/l. All these values are greater than the desirable limit prescribed by Indian Standards for Drinking Water (i.e. 0.0 mg/L). The Highest Nitrite value found in Narwar Nalla at Dhankhedi 1.07 mg/L. The Highest Nitrite value found in River Water sample After Confluence of nalla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi 1.07 mg/l.
4.3.20 Nitrate The Nitrate values obtained for the Ground water samples are ranging between 1.86 to 8.95 mg/L. The lowest values of Nitrate in the TW Water were found at Niranjanpur is 1.86 mg/l. The highest value of Nitrate were found the at H.D. Wires is 8.95 mg/l. All these values are less than the desirable limit prescribed by Indian Standards for Drinking Water (i.e. 45 mg/L). In Nalla water the Highest Nitrate value were found at Bhorasala Nalla Near Avantika CNG is 8.49 mg/L. The Highest Nitrate value found in River Water sample After Confluence of nalla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi 6.42 mg/l.
25 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
4.3.21 Sulphate The sulphate values obtained for the Ground water samples are ranging between 19.76 to 160.82 mg/L . The lowest values of Sulphate were found in the TW Water at Hanuman Mandir is 19.76 mg/l. The highest value of Sulphate were found in the TW Water at Ajmera Metals is 160.82 mg/l. The Highest sulphate value found in Nalla at Ram Nagar is 149.01 mg/L. The Highest sulphate value found in River Water sample Before Confluence to River Kanh at Dhankhedi 98.16 mg/l. These values are within acceptable limits prescribed by Indian Standards for Drinking Water (200 mg/L).
4.3.22 Phosphate The phosphate concentration in the analyzed ground water samples are in the range between 0.01 to 0.68 mg/L. The lowest value of phosphate in the TW Water at Near Arvindo Hospital Vill. Bhwarsala 0.01 whereas highest value of phosphate were found in the TW Water at H.D. Wires is 0.68 mg/l. All the samples show the presence of phosphates which indicates the contamination of ground water by leakage of underground drainage system. The Highest Phosphate value found in Bhwarsala Nalla near Avantika CNG is 4.61 mg/L. The Highest Phosphate value found in River Water sample After Confluence of nalla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi 2.73 mg/l. 4.3.23 Sodium The sodium values obtained for the Ground water samples are ranging between 30 to 289.95 mg/L . The lowest values of Sodium in the TW Water at Shamshan Ghat is 18.8 mg/l. The highest value of Sodium in the TW Water at Mouni Baba Ashram is 289.95 mg/l. The Highest Sodium value found in Bhorasala Nalla at Avantika CNG 201.3 mg/L. The Highest Sodium value found in River Water sample After Confluence of Nalla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi 81.55 mg/l.
26 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
4.3.24 Potasium The potasium values obtained for the Ground water samples are ranging between 1 to 20.7 mg/L . The lowest values of Potassium in the TW Water at Akash Global Foods, Kumedi is 1 mg/l. The highest value of Potassium were found in the TW Water at Balaji Dying is 20.7 mg/l. The Highest Potassium value found in Nalla at Bhorasala Nalla New Vijay Nagar is 40.81 mg/L. The Highest Potassium value found in River Water sample After Confluence of nalla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi 14.94 mg/l.
4.3.25 Fluoride Fluoride concentration for water samples varies from 0.32 to 1.3 mg/L. The lowest value of Fluoride in the TW Water Arhum Alum is 0.32 whereas highest value of Fluoride in the TW Water at Continental Refractories is 1.3 mg/l. The values for fluoride less than the acceptable limit prescribed by Indian Standards for Drinking Water (i.e. 1.0 mg/L). The Highest Fluoride value found in Nalla at Bhorasala Nalla New Vijay Nagar is 1.8 mg/L. The Highest Fluoride value found in River Water sample After Confluence of nalla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi 1.43 mg/l.
4.3.26 Total Coliform According to the Indian Standards for Drinking Water the Total Coliform shall not be detected in any 100 ml sample. All the ground water samples show Coliform values. The range of Total Coliforms found is 1.8 to 12 MPN/100 ml. The highest value of total coliform in the TW Water at Jai Bhawani Nagar is 12 MPN/100 ml. The lowest value of Total coliform is 1.8 MPN/100 ml in the TW Water are found in following sampling points given below: Mahendra Mehra, Mouni Baba Aashram , Kanhwalkar Ind., MR 10 Toll Naka ,Indogerman , Awantika CNG Gas Station , Arvindo Hospital, Prem Textile , Varun Foodfs , Rini Life Science, 27 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
Akash Global, Hanuman Mandir, Tirupati Colony, Choksi Labs, Ram Mandir, Limbodiya tent. The highest value of total coliform found in Nalla at Nandbagh Colony is 7000 MPN/100 ml. The highest value of total coliform found in River Water sample After Confluence of nalla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi is 2700 MPN/100 ml.
4.3.27 Fecal Coliform In the present study Fecal coliform were observed <1.8 in all Ground water sampling station .The Highest range of Fecal coliform found in Nalla at Nandbagh Colony is 3500 MPN/100 ml . The Highest range of Fecal coliform in River Water sample After Confluence of nalla to River Kanh at Dhankhedi is 400 MPN/100 ml .
4.3.28 Iron The permissible limit given by Indian Standards for Drinking Water (5 mg/L). The iron concentration ranges from 0.018 to 2.89 mg/L. The lowest value of Iron in the TW Water at Sachin Kirana is 0.018 mg/l. The highest value of Iron in the TW Water at Metal Profile Unit 1 is 2.89 mg/l. The highest value of Iron found in Bhorasalah Nalla at Awantika CNG Gas is 1.1 mg/L. The highest value of Iron found in Both river water samples is 0.05 mg/L. 4.3.29 Manganese The permissible limit given by Indian Standards for Drinking Water (0.3 mg/L) In ground water the value of manganese 0.011 mg/l is found at Aakash Enterprises. In Nalla water the value of manganese were found is 0.021 mg/l is found at Bhorasala Nalla New Vijay Nagar. Manganese is not found in any River samples. Water samples are far less than the acceptable limit (0.1 mg/L) as prescribed by Indian Standards for Drinking Water. 28 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
4.3.30 Copper The desirable limit for copper is 5.0 mg/L as prescribed by Indian Standards for Drinking Water. The concentration for zinc varies from 0.007 to 0.052 mg/L. The lowest value of copper in the TW Water at Mahendra Mehra is 0.007 mg/l. The highest value of copper in the TW Water at Arhum Alum is 0.052mg/L, All water samples are under acceptable limit0.05 mg/L. Copper is not found in any Nalla samples and River samples . 4.3.31 Nickel The Acceptable limit for Nickel is 0.02 mg/L as prescribed by Indian Standards for Drinking Water. Nickel is not detected in any TW Water samples, Nalla samples and River samples .
4.3.32 Zinc The Acceptable limit for zinc is 0.003 mg/L as prescribed by Indian Standards for Drinking Water. Zinc is not detected in any water sample.
4.3.33 Lead The Acceptable limit for zinc is 0.01 mg/L as prescribed by Indian Standards for Drinking Water. Zinc is not detected in any water sample.
4.3.34 Cadmium The Acceptable limit for Cadmium is 0.3 mg/L as prescribed by Indian Standards for Drinking Water. Cadmium is not detected in any water sample.
4.3.35 Chromium The Acceptable limit for Chromium is 0.05 mg/L as prescribed by Indian Standards for Drinking Water. Chromium is not detected in any water sample."
29 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
6. The date of taking sample and its detail has been mentioned as follows in a tabular form :-
1, Narwar Nalla Water at Nandbagh Colony, Sec A Acceptab Permissi Parameters Unit 21.04.2 12.05.23 21.06.23 12.07.23 09.08.23 14.09.23 13.10.23 7.11.23 14.12.23 16.01.24 15.02.24 19.03.24 le Limit ble Limit 1 Temp. °C 22 22 22 22 20 21 21 21 20 21 22 21 Not Not 2 Colour Pt. Co. - - - - - - - - - - - - 5 15 Scale 3 Odour Unpl. Unpl. Unpl. Unpl. Unpl. Unpl. Unpl. Unpl. Unpl. Unpl. Unpl. Unpl. Agreeabl Agreeabl 4 pH pH Unit 7.52 7.74 7.67 7.74 7.82 7.66 7.72 7.45 7.52 7.71 7.45 7.69 6.5 - 8.5 No 5 Sp. Cond μMhos/cm 2574 2642 2781 2469 1869 1638 1607 1820 1963 2174 2367 2648 Not Not 6 Turbidity N.T.U. 16.3 22.5 17.9 36.7 44.2 43.7 38.6 36.7 42.4 40.9 41.7 28.4 1 5 7 Chloride mg/L 264.91 279.9 298.91 249.92 202.49 259.31 237.51 265.16 299.9 324.89 359.88 299.9 250 1000 8 T. mg/L 500 460 520 484 400 380 360 420 380 400 480 500 200 600 Alkalinity 9 T. Hardness mg/L 700 640 780 700 640 600 580 700 700 690 720 760 200 600 10 Ca. mg/L 400 380 460 450 360 340 340 460 400 420 460 480 Not Not hardness 11 Mg. mg/L 300 260 312 250 280 260 240 240 300 270 260 280 Not Not 12 TKN mg/L 28.01 19.6 30.8 21.01 22.41 21.85 19.6 16.8 16.24 17.08 18.2 22.41 Not Not 13 TS mg/L 1673 1717 1807 1605 1214 1192 1044 1183 1475 1413 1538 1721 Not Not 14 TDS mg/L 1643 1672 1775 1535 1146 1132 997 1119 1405 1353 1473 1691 500 2000 15 SS mg/L 30 45 32 70 68 60 47 64 70 60 65 30 Not Not 30 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors. 16 BOD mg/L 30 32 40 38 42 28 26 24 35 28 32 40 Not Not 17 COD mg/L 150 160 180 160 180 110 100 120 130 100 120 160 Not Not 18 NH3 mg/L 2.54 1.8 2.626 1.234 1.96 1.82 1.04 0.643 0.698 0.731 0.8 1.673 0.5 No 19 Nitrite mg/L 0.54 0.6 0.67 0.53 0.47 0.38 0.27 0.19 0.21 0.26 0.32 0.51 Not Not 20 Nitrate mg/L 6.64 6.32 6.81 6.24 7.37 7.78 6.88 5.67 5.78 6.63 6.89 6.66 45 No 21 Phosphate mg/L 0.82 0.87 0.93 2.86 3.17 2.68 1.97 1.82 1.9 2.3 2.5 1.8 Not Not 22 Sulphate mg/L 110.2 100.5 120.8 90.64 96.24 81.2 79.81 67.7 69.3 73.8 75.2 101.2 200 400 23 Sodium mg/L 72.3 72.1 107.3 70.6 84.3 76.1 72.4 79.3 120 100.6 112.6 109.3 - - 24 Pottasium mg/L 20.4 18.2 21.3 16.4 14.7 12.8 11.6 12.3 14.2 17.4 18.3 19.6 - - 25 Flouride mg/L 1.64 1.1 1.76 1.02 0.94 0.93 0.76 0.63 0.78 0.82 0.91 1.2 1 1.5 26 Cadmium mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.3 No 27 Chromium mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.05 No 28 Copper mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.05 1.5 29 Iron mg/L ND ND ND ND 0.04 1.04 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.05 0.04 0.06 5 15 30 Manganese mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.1 0.3 31 Lead mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.01 No 32 Zinc mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.003 No 33 Nickel mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.02 No 34 T. Coliform MPN/100 5000 4000 7000 5000 5600 5800 5500 5500 5000 4000 4000 5000 0 0 35 F. Coliform MPN/100 1600 1600 3500 2600 2400 2200 2200 1200 1200 1000 920 2600 0 0 31 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
2, Tube Well Water at Kushwah Nagar, Sec A Accepta Permissi Parameters Unit 21.04.23 12.05.23 21.06.23 12.07.23 09.08.23 14.09.23 13.10.23 7.11.23 14.12.23 16.01.24 15.02.24 19.03.24 ble ble Limit 1 Temp. °C 21 22.5 21 22.5 20 21 21 21 21 20 21 20 Not Not 2 Colour Pt. Co. Scale 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 5 15 3 Odour O.less O.less O.less O.less O.less O.less O.Less O.less O.less O.Less O.Less O.Less Agreeab Agreeabl 4 pH pH Unit 7.6 7.32 7.7 7.32 7.78 7.87 7.62 7.12 7.68 7.62 7.81 7.88 6.5 - 8.5 No 5 Sp. Cond μMhos/cm 1425 1394 1852.5 1548 1216 1181 1106 1519 1642 1891 1972 1949 Not Not 6 Turbidity N.T.U. 6.6 5.3 9.4 2.3 3.1 2.8 1.9 1.6 1.3 1.2 1.4 2.2 1 5 7 Chloride mg/L 299.9 264.9 241.06 199.3 173.56 207.45 194.76 241.06 249.9 304.96 329.89 294.9 250 1000 8 T. Alkalinity mg/L 280 260 260 268 300 300 280 310 340 300 400 280 200 600 9 T. Hardness mg/L 400 360 340 360 350 380 360 400 420 440 480 420 200 600 10 Ca. hardness mg/L 260 240 190 236 240 260 240 280 300 280 360 270 Not Not 11 Mg. Hardness mg/L 140 120 150 124 110 120 120 120 120 160 120 150 Not Not 12 TKN mg/L 7.28 7 7.28 7 7.28 7.56 7 8.4 8.4 8.4 8.4 7.28 Not Not 13 TS mg/L 1425 1012 1131 1006 820 803 718 987 1067 1229 1252 1266 Not Not 14 TDS mg/L 1413 1002 1119 996 812 794 710 980 1061 1222 1246 1261 500 2000 15 SS mg/L 12 10 12 10 8 9 8 7 6 7 6 5 Not Not 16 BOD mg/L 3 2.6 2.2 1 1.4 1.2 1.1 1 1.2 1.2 1.8 2.2 Not Not 17 COD mg/L 26 14 26 14 11 12 14 16 18 16 18 20 Not Not 18 NH3 mg/L 0.026 0.018 0.022 0.017 0.018 0.018 0.016 0.012 0.014 0.022 0.026 0.03 0.5 No 32 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors. 19 Nitrite mg/L 0.056 0.04 0.053 0.036 0.02 0.024 0.021 0.018 0.02 0.027 0.031 0.042 Not Not 20 Nitrate mg/L 3.87 3.24 3.47 2.96 3.73 3.61 2.76 1.98 2 2.6 2.9 3.2 45 No 21 Phosphate mg/L 0.035 0.03 0.031 0.028 0.041 0.03 0.02 0.018 0.021 0.027 0.03 0.038 Not Not 22 Sulphate mg/L 36.7 39.5 37.74 40.168 47.42 42.4 38.7 32.7 34.8 52.6 54.3 37.8 200 400 23 Sodium mg/L 82.4 75.2 80.7 60.73 65.27 58.7 52.4 50.3 62.7 70.3 73.7 76.5 - - 24 Pottasium mg/L 2 1.8 2 1.4 1.8 2 1.8 1.2 1.6 2.2 2.6 2.2 - - 25 Flouride mg/L 0.78 0.77 0.88 0.76 0.68 0.72 0.68 0.57 0.6 0.65 0.67 0.72 1 1.5 26 Cadmium mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.3 No 27 Chromium mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.05 No 28 Copper mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.05 1.5 29 Iron mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 5 15 30 Manganese mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.1 0.3 31 Lead mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.01 No 32 Zinc mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.003 No 33 Nickel mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.02 No 34 Total MPN/100 5.6 4 5.6 3.2 4 5.9 5.5 4 4 5.5 5.5 5.6 0 0 35 F. Coliform MPN/100 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 0 0 33 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
3, Tube Well Water at Bhagat Singh Nagar, Sec A Acceptab Permissi
Parameters Unit
21.04.23 12.05.23 21.06.23 12.07.23 09.08.23 14.09.23 13.10.23 7.11.23 14.12.23 16.01.24 15.02.24 19.03.24 le Limit ble Limit
1 Temp. °C 21 22 21.2 21.5 21 21 20 21 21 21 21 22 Not Not
2 Colour Pt. Co. 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 5 15
Scale
3 Odour O.less O.less O.less O.less O.less O.less O.Less O.less O.less O.Less O.Less O.less Agreeabl Agreeabl
4 pH pH Unit 7.65 7.7 7.74 7.81 7.65 7.87 7.66 7.8 7.74 7.8 7.7 7.74 6.5 - 8.5 No
5 Sp. Cond μMhos/cm 1584 1622 1677 1729 1642 1536 1421 1712 1877 2014 2247 1733 Not Not
6 Turbidity N.T.U. 6.5 7.2 7.6 4.6 4.4 4.1 3.6 3 2.6 2 2.1 2.3 1 5
7 Chloride mg/L 224.9 249.9 231.41 263.91 207.31 240.45 232.76 250.7 299.9 349.89 359.88 329.89 250 1000
8 T. mg/L 200 220 200 260 300 320 300 320 360 380 400 300 200 600
Alkalinity
9 T. Hardness mg/L 360 370 380 380 400 460 420 460 480 500 540 480 200 600
10 Ca. mg/L 240 260 200 248 230 300 320 300 300 320 360 320 Not Not
hardness
11 Mg. mg/L 120 110 130 132 170 160 100 160 180 180 180 160 Not Not
Hardness
12 TKN mg/L 7 7 7.28 7 6.72 6.16 6.16 6.44 7 7.56 7 7.28 Not Not
13 TS mg/L 1029 1054 1051 1124 1067 1013 980 1112 1220 1310 1460 1329 Not Not
14 TDS mg/L 1022 1046 1044 1113 1058 1003 971 1102 1212 1302 1454 1321 500 2000
15 SS mg/L 7 8 7 11 9 10 9 10 8 8 6 8 Not Not
16 BOD mg/L 0.6 1.2 0.8 2 2.2 1.4 1.2 1.2 1.2 1.6 2 1.8 Not Not
17 COD mg/L 10 14 12 24 14 16 15 16 17 18 19 16 Not Not
18 NH3 mg/L 0.016 0.015 0.019 0.02 0.024 0.026 0.022 0.02 0.022 0.026 0.024 0.02 0.5 No
19 Nitrite mg/L 0.038 0.035 0.042 0.041 0.046 0.05 0.041 0.036 0.04 0.048 0.042 0.04 Not Not
20 Nitrate mg/L 2.89 2.64 3.68 2.88 4.81 4.42 4 2.698 2.767 2.896 2.937 3.33 45 No
34
OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
21 Phosphate mg/L 0.022 0.027 0.026 0.029 0.058 0.051 0.046 0.032 0.038 0.042 0.054 0.04 Not Not
22 Sulphate mg/L 40.4 42.3 44.7 32.46 46.75 42.26 38.72 32.6 34.7 44.3 46.8 40.54 200 400
23 Sodium mg/L 68.2 64.5 69.4 76.7 70.6 68.7 60.4 53.3 74.5 75.2 77.4 68.99 - -
24 Pottasium mg/L 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.8 2.4 2.6 2.2 2 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.15 - -
25 Flouride mg/L 0.71 0.77 0.82 0.8 0.84 0.74 0.63 0.5 0.68 0.72 0.8 0.73 1 1.5
26 Cadmium mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.3 No
27 Chromium mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.05 No
28 Copper mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.05 1.5
29 Iron mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 5 15
30 Manganese mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.1 0.3
31 Lead mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.01 No
32 Zinc mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.003 No
33 Nickel mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.02 No
34 T. Coliform MPN/100 4 4 3.5 5.5 5 5.9 5.5 4 4 4 4 4 0 0
35 F. Coliform MPN/100 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 0 0
35
OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
4, Tube Well Water at Ram Nagar, Sec A Acceptab Permissi
Parameters Unit
21.04.23 12.05.23 21.06.23 12.07.23 09.08.23 21.09.23 13.10.23 7.11.23 14.12.23 16.01.24 15.02.24 19.03.24 le Limit ble Limit
1 Temp. °C 21 22 21.7 21.5 21 22 21 22 21 21 22 22 Not Not
2 Colour Pt. Co. 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 5 15
Scale
3 Odour O.less O.less O.less O.less O.less O.less O.Les O.less O.less O.Less O.Less O.Less Agreeabl Agreeabl
s
4 pH pH Unit 7.28 7.45 7.37 7.42 7.6 7.7 7.42 7.62 7.69 7.72 7.8 7.6 6.5 - 8.5 No
5 Sp. Cond μMhos/cm 1441 1500 1531 1510 1677 1572 1476 1506 1612 1873 1942 1663 Not Not
6 Turbidity N.T.U. 6.4 6.6 7.6 3 3.2 2.8 2.8 2 1.8 2 2.2 2.2 1 5
7 Chloride mg/L 249.9 264.9 216.95 219.93 279.62 235.74 223.26 255.52 299.9 359.88 374.88 299.9 250 1000
8 T. Alkalinity mg/L 260 240 250 256 260 300 280 300 320 340 360 320 200 600
9 T. Hardness mg/L 380 400 400 420 390 400 400 420 440 480 500 440 200 600
10 Ca. hardness mg/L 240 260 240 248 230 260 240 260 260 320 340 300 Not Not
11 Mg. mg/L 140 140 152 172 160 140 160 180 180 160 160 140 Not Not
Hardness
12 TKN mg/L 7.28 7.56 8.4 7.84 7.28 7 6.16 6.16 6.72 7 7 7.28 Not Not
13 TS mg/L 1036 1075 1122 1000 1090 1021 959 1020 1047 1217 1262 1087 Not Not
14 TDS mg/L 1029 1067 1115 988 1076 1009 951 1013 1041 1210 1256 1080 500 2000
15 SS mg/L 7 8 7 12 14 12 8 7 6 7 6 7 Not Not
16 BOD mg/L 2 1.8 1.6 1.8 2.4 2 1 1 1.1 1.4 1.8 1.4 Not Not
17 COD mg/L 18 17 14 16 17 17 13 12 14 16 17 16 Not Not
18 NH3 mg/L 0.025 0.024 0.02 0.02 0.026 0.022 0.018 0.013 0.016 0.02 0.024 0.018 0.5 No
19 Nitrite mg/L 0.041 0.049 0.054 0.044 0.048 0.046 0.032 0.028 0.032 0.04 0.042 0.036 Not Not
20 Nitrate mg/L 3.045 3.147 3.826 3.623 4.67 4.42 3.634 3.279 3.482 3.673 3.894 3.62 45 No
36
OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
21 Phosphate mg/L 0.051 0.065 0.061 0.042 0.05 0.043 0.038 0.027 0.029 0.037 0.04 0.034 Not Not
22 Sulphate mg/L 32.5 34.5 39.6 36.7 38.66 44 36.27 33.7 44.6 46.8 47.2 42.7 200 400
23 Sodium mg/L 68.5 69.4 71.3 68.9 37.6 48.3 58.3 50.1 72.9 74.3 74.8 66.8 - -
24 Pottasium mg/L 2.6 2.2 2 2 1.8 2.8 2 1.8 2 2.6 2.7 2.2 - -
25 Flouride mg/L 0.65 0.7 0.77 0.72 0.76 0.7 0.58 0.43 0.78 0.76 0.82 0.67 1 1.5
26 Cadmium mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.3 No
27 Chromium mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.05 No
28 Copper mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.05 1.5
29 Iron mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 5 15
30 Manganese mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.1 0.3
31 Lead mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.01 No
32 Zinc mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.003 No
33 Nickel mg/L ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND ND 0.02 No
34 T. Coliform MPN/100 4 4 3.7 3 4 5.5 5.5 5.5 5.5 5.5 5.5 4 0 0
35 F. Coliform MPN/100 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 <1.8 0 0
37
OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
7. In the project report the major cause of the contamination of the groundwater are concluded as follows:-
"Ground water is the hidden treasure, which is a gift of the nature to the mankind. It should be consumed and utilized with great care, but unfortunately, we are facing a great problem of ground water, as well as surface water management. The parameters, which affect or alter the water quality, are TDS, Total Hardness, Chlorides, Alkalinity, Sulphates, Sodium, Phosphates and Total Coliforms in some areas. The findings of the work exhibits that the few parameters have values that is undesirable in the sample sources studied. It has been concluded from the present study that the Ground water sources of the city area and most of the rural areas situated near the Bhorasala Nalla and Narvar Nalla need proper attention, hence regular periodical checking was required. The water from these wells require further treatment before drinking as most of them do not satisfy the requirements of Indian Standards for Drinking Water (IS- 10500:2012) in the area of physico-chemical analysis and microbiological analysis. From the present analysis data, it can be concluded that ground water is deteriorated in few areas, i.e. Sanwer Road Industrial Area Sector A, Sector F , Tirupati Industrial area, Kumedi Village, ground water are highly contaminated due to Inorganic, Organic & Biological Contamination and water is unfit for direct drinking purpose. The possible reasons for its deterioration being:-
Inorganic Contamination- Groundwater moving through sedimentary rocks and soils may pick up a wide range of compounds, such as Magnesium, Calcium, and Chloride, Arsenate, Fluoride, Nitrate, and Iron. The natural occurring elements present at unacceptable levels can contaminate water as well. Some parameters, like Nitrate & Phosphate found in sewage and waste from human and/or from animals and 38 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
generally gets into underground strata through percolation.
1. Organic Contamination - Major Source of organic contamination is Anthropogenic activities i.e. Domestic waste water, Industrial waste and municipal waste. In above mentioned areas, these activities were in practice for many years.
2. Biological Contamination - It may be due to improper management of septic tank overflows, Improper sewer lines and Improper drainage systems. since last few months during rainy season Some area showing higher Coliform Bacteria due to Sewage percolation through Nalla and other localized sources during past season and because of this reason population living in the area is facing many health issues.
The assessment of Ground Water quality is done by physical, chemical and biological analysis that could help in understanding the extent of ground water pollution by surrounding activities.
The major parameters which affect and alter the water quality are physical parameters i.e. Color Chemical parameters i.e. pH, Total Dissolved solids(TDS), Sulphate, Chloride & Heavy metals (Cadmium, Chromium, Copper, Iron, Manganese, Lead, Zinc, Nickel) and Biological parameters i.e. Total Coliform etc. The study was taken by surveying along Narwar Nalla, Bhorsala Nalla and Kanh River where the major possibility of ground water contamination therefore 53 sampling sites selected in which 46 are ground water sampling points, 5 Nallas sampling points and 2 river sampling points.
MPPCB has conducted one year study on 53 sampling points at different intervals. As per detailed analysis of study, findings are as follows:-
1. Physical Parameters:- Color :-
All the sampling points color has been found below 5 Pt. Co.39
OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
units which is well below the standards (5-15 Pt.-Co.) prescribed in Drinking water standards IS code 10500:2012. No colored water sample found.
2. Chemical Parameters:- pH:-
➢ As per the study pH of 46 ground water sampling point throughout the years found in the range of 6.66-8.36 which is within the range of 6.5-8.5 as prescribed in Drinking water standards IS code 10500:2012. The lowest value is observed in ground water sample of M/s H.D. wire, located at Sector-E, Industrial Area Sanwer Road Indore i.e. 6.66 in month of April 2023, whereas highest values were observed in ground water samples Mouni Baba Ashram i.e. 8.36 in month of August 2023. ➢ As per the study pH of 5 Nallas samples throughout the years found in the range of 7.05-8.72 which is within the range of 6.5-8.5 as prescribed in Drinking water standards IS code 10500:2012 except one sample of Narwar Nalla at Dhankhedi i.e. 8.72 in month of April 2023. The lowest value is observed in Bhorasala Nalla Near Avantika CNG Gas Station, Sector-E, Industrial Area Sanwer Road i.e. 7.05 in month of April 2023.
➢ As per the study, pH of 02 river water samples throughout the years found in the range of 8.03-8.17 which is fall in the range of 6.5-8.5 as prescribed in Drinking water standards IS code 10500:2012. The highest pH value is observed in river water at Dhankhedi before confluence of nalla to River Kanh i.e. 8.03 in the month of April 2023 and in river water at Dhankhedi After Confluence of nalla to River Kanh i.e 8.17 in the month of April 2023. Summary of pH may be perused as mentioned in following table : 40
OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors. pH value Type of Sample Minimum Maximum Average Location where max.
value value value value found
Ground Water
6.66 8.36 7.64 Mouni Baba Ashram
Sample
River Water Sample 8.03 8.17 7.70 Dhankhedi After
Confluence of nalla to
River Kanh
NarwarNalla at
Nalla Sample 7.05 8.72 7.63
dhankhedi
Total Dissolved Solids(TDS):-
➢ As per the study of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) of all sampling point throughout the year, found in the range of 575-3983 mg/L. Most of the ground water samples were found within the range of 500-2000 mg/L as prescribed in Drinking water standards IS 10500:2012 except some samples of sector A, Sector E, Sector F and Kumedi Village ground water samples exceed permissible limit in absence of alternative source which is 2000 mg/L in certain months i.e. April, May, June 2023.
➢ TDS value of 575 mg/L found in the month of Apirl 2023 in sample Near Arvindo Hospital Village Bhorasala. The highest values found in Hinglaj Mata Mandir, Kumhedi 3972 mg/L in the month of May 2023.
It is found that the maximum value of TDS is observed in the month of April to June 2023 because in the summer season the ground water table goes deep down so that concentration of principle ions contributing to dissolved solids (Carbonate, Bicarbonate, Chloride, Sulphates, Nitrate, Silicate, Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, And Magnesium) are increased. So in the summer, The TDS concentration found at higher level in ground water. Summary of TDS may be perused as mentioned in following table :
41
OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
Total Dissolved Solids(TDS in mg/L)
Type of Sample Minimum Maximum Average Location where max. value
value value value found
Ground Water 575 3972 1441 Near Hinglaj mata mandir
Sample
River Water Sample 618 1150 844 After Confluence to River
Kanh
Bhawarsala Nalla Near
Nalla Sample 890 2870 1407 Avantika CNG Gas Station
Chloride:-
As per the study, Chloride content in ground water samples throughout the year found within range of 96.42-964.24 mg/L, which is within the range of 250- 1000 mg/L as prescribed in Drinking water standards IS code 10500:2012. The lowest concentration of Chlorides was found at Near Arvindo Hospital Bhorasala i.e. 96.42 mg/L in the month of April 2023. The highest concentration of Chlorides was found at ground water sample near Mouni Baba Aashram i.e. 964.24 mg/L in the month of May 2023. Summary of Chlorides may be perused as mentioned in following table:
Chlorides (in mg/L)
Type of Sample Minimum Maximum Average Location where max. value
value value value found
Ground Water 96.42 964.24 382.573 Near Mouni Baba Aashram
Sample
River Water Sample 149.54 399.87 285 Before Confluence to River
Kanh
Nalla Sample 197.6 602.65 369 Bhawarsala Nalla Near
Avantika CNG
Sulphate:-
As per the study, Sulphate content in ground water samples throughout the year were found in the range of 19.76-160.82 mg/L, which is within the range of 200-400 mg/L as prescribed limit by Drinking water standards IS code 10500:2012. The lowest value of Sulphate content was found in the Tube-Well water at Hanuman Mandir is 19.76 mg/L in the month of August 2023. The highest value of Sulphate 42 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
content was found in the Tube-well water at M/s Ajmera Metals, Village-Kumedi is 160.82 mg/L in the month of May- 2023. Summary of Sulphate may be perused as mentioned in following table :
Sulphate (in mg/L) Minimum Maximum Average Location where max.
Type of Sample
value value value value found
Ground Water Tube-Well Water at Ajmera
19.76 160.82 70.73
Sample Metals
Before Confluence to River
River Water Sample Kanh
29.88 98.16 54.43
Nalla Sample Nalla Near Ram Nagar
48.7 149.01 74.55
Regarding Heavy Metal:-
➢ As per the study of ground water samples, all Heavy Metals (Cadmium, Chromium, Copper, Iron, Manganese, Lead, Zinc, Nickel) were found well within the standards prescribed in drinking water standards IS code 10500:2012.
Other reasons for contamination of ground water are as follows :
▪ Improper sewage collection network and spillage of waste water from chamber of sewage collection network.
▪ Untreated Domestic Waste water flowing in nallahs.
▪ Development of new colonies in indore city mainly Mangliya, Nipania Talawali chanda, Arvindo hospital area, Gram bhangya , Jakhaya, Kalindi gold, Karol bagh, Gold city, Singapur township, Kailaudhala, Venmont park, Royal green etc. ▪ Inadequate capacity of industrial waste collection pipeline network.43
OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
▪ Inadequate capacity of domestic waste water treatment.
▪ Discharge of untreated industrial waste water in Narvar and Bhorasala nallahs.
▪ Overflow in industrial waste collection in pipeline network in sanwer industrial area."
8. A notice was also issued to the Central Groundwater Authority to respond on the facts and the learned counsel for the Central Groundwater Board has relied on the Hydro-Geo-Chemical Investigation in and around Kumedi village, Sanwer block, District-Indore, Madhya Pradesh with the following key points related to water quality - i.
a) Groundwater samples were collected from 29 different locations, including dug wells (2), hand pumps (5), and bore wells (22) in and around Kumedi village in the Sanwer industrial area. The details of the sampling locations are provided in Table 1 and Figure 1.
b) The following water quality parameters were analysed:
temperature, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total hardness, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, carbonate, bicarbonate, chloride, fluoride, nitrate, sulfate, phosphate, silica, along with selected trace/heavy metals such as antimony, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, nickel, manganese, mercury, tin, uranium, and zinc.
c) The electrical conductivity of water in and around Kumedi village ranged in between 990 to 5390 µS/cm at 25°C. The electrical conductivity more than 3000 µS/cm at 25°C was recorded in 7 locations namely BW-02, HP-01, HP-05, BW-12, 44 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
BW-13, BW-18 and BW-19. The maximum electrical conductivity i.e. 5390 µS/cm at 25°C was recorded at HP-1 of Ram Mandir, Kumedi village.
d) The study area found free of carbonate concentrations. The bicarbonate concentration observed in between 43 to 616 mg/l. The maximum bicarbonate concentration was found at Ram Mandir, Bhangiya (HP-05: 616 mg/l).
e) The Chloride concentration was observed in between 79 to 1010 mg/l. The chloride concentration of more than the permissible limit of 1000 mg/l was observed at the house of Rakesh Panchal, Bhangiya village (BW-12:1010 mg/l).
f) The sulphate concentration ranged in between 37 to 477 mg/l. The maximum sulphate concentration which is also more than the BIS permissible limit i.e.400 mg/l was observed at Ram Mandir, Kumedi village (HP-1: 477 mg/l).
g) The fluoride concentration in water samples observed in between 0.26 to 3.40 mg/l. The fluoride concentration in all water samples was found within the maximum permissible limits of BIS (1.50 mg/l) except the three locations namely: BW- 11(2.35 mg/l); BW-18(3.10), and HI-04(3.40 mg/l).
h) The nitrate concentration in ground water samples ranged in between 5 to 400 mg/l. Out of 29 ground water samples; 8 samples (27.6%) recorded nitrate concentration within the BIS acceptable limit (45 mg/l), whereas 72.4% (21 nos.) samples recorded more than 45 mg/l. The maximum concentration of 45 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
nitrate was observed at Ram Mandir, Kumedi (HP-01; 400 mg/l). It is worthwhile to note that nitrate salts are highly soluble in groundwater whose presence is tied to nature's nitrogen cycle. The primary sources of nitrate introduction in groundwater come from the decomposition of animal and plant waste, septic systems, or agricultural field run-off from fields fertilized with ammonia.
i) There is no nutritional basis for the regulation of phosphorus levels in the Indian drinking water supplies. The World Health Organization (WHO, 1999) recommends 0.1 mg/l and 1.0 mg/l concentrations of PO43-respectively as desirable and permissible levels for drinking water. In all locations except one DW-12(0.2 mg/l), the phosphate concentration in the study area was observed Below Detection limit (BDL).
j) There are no agreeable primary or secondary contaminants limits of silica for drinking water prescribed either by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) or any other slimier agency like US EPA, WHO. The silicate concentration in the samples around study area ranged from 27 to 60 mg/l.
k) The total hardness of water samples in Kumedi village industrial area ranged in between 120 to 1760 mg/l. The total hardness observed more than BIS maximum permissible limit i.e. 600 mg/l was recorded in 68.9% of samples (20 out of 29 samples). The maximum concentration of total hardness was observed in ground water of 11P-01 (1760 mg/l). 46 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
l) The calcium concentration in water of Kumedi industrial area ranged in between 32 to 328 mg/l. The calcium concentration observed more than BIS permissible limit i.e. 200 mg/l in 11 samples out of 29. The maximum concentration of calcium was observed in ground water of HP-01 (328 mg/l).
m) The magnesium concentration in water of Kumedi village industrial area ranged from 2 to 229 mg/l. The magnesium concentration observed more than BIS maximum permissible limit i.e. 100 mg/l in 7 out of 29 ground water samples. The maximum concentration of magnesium concentration has been observed in ground water of HP-01 (229 mg/l).
n) The sodium concentrations in the study area were observed in between 22 to 380 mg/l. The maximum concentration was found in HP-1 of Kumedi (380 mg/l). It is worthwhile to note that BIS did not prescribe either desirable or permissible limits for sodium.
o) The potassium concentrations in the study area were observed in between 1.5 to 189 mg/l. The maximum concentration has been found in Ram Mandir, Bhangiya (HP-5: 189 mg/l). It is worthwhile to note that no numerical BIS drinking water quality guideline exists for potassium
p) The iron concentration was found in the range of 0.009 to 0.735 mg/l and it was within BIS permissible limit i.e. 1.0 mg/l. The maximum iron concentration was observed in the BW-06 (0.735 mg/l) situated in the agriculture field of Mr. Prakash owner in Kumedi village.
47 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
q) Zinc is an essential micro-nutrient and beneficial element for human bodies. The Bureau of Indian Standards prescribed desirable and permissible limits as 5.0 and 15.0 mg/l respectively. The concentration of Zn in water samples varied from 0.026 to 2.8 mg/l and in all locations, it was within the BIS desirable limit. The maximum concentration of zinc was observed in the ground water sample taken form hand pump (HP-01) near Ram Mandir in Kumedi village (2.8 mg/l).
r) The permissible BIS limit of Nickel in drinking water is 0.02 mg/l with no relaxation. In our study area the Nickel concentration was recorded in between 0.007 to 0.194 mg/l. Four out of 29 (13.7%) samples recorded nickel concentration more than 0.02 mg/l. The maximum concentration. (0.194 mg/l) was observed in the sample taken from the premises of Atulit Chemical Pvt Ltd, Kumedi, (BW-01).
s) The BIS has set health-based desirable and permissible guideline values for manganese in drinking water as 0.1 mg/1 (100 ppb) and 0.3 mg/1 (300 ppb) respectively to ensure protection against manganese toxicity. The manganese concentration in the study area was found in all samples within permissible limit in between 0.016 to 0.184 mg/l. The maximum concentration was observed in the bore well inside the Narwal Mukthi Dham Centre, Near Sector-F, Narwal village (BW-19: 0.184 mg/l).
t) The permissible limit of uranium concentration set by BIS and AERB (Atomic Energy Regulatory Board) are respectively 30 48 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
and 60 ppb for drinking water. In our study area, the uranium concentration was recorded within the BIS permissible limit with maximum as 10.12 ppb in the sample taken from the hand pump near Ram Mandir in Kumedi village (HP-01). u) The other heavy metals i.e. Arsenic (As), Antimony (Sb), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Mercury (Hg), Lead (Pb), and Tin (Sn) were reported concentrations below detectable limit (BDL). ii. The water samples from Kumedi village, Indore, showed a temperature range between 20°C and 29°C, with the highest temperature recorded at Mukthi Dham Centre, Narwal. The pH levels were within BIS permissible limits (6.5 to 8.5), ranging from 6.72 to 8.18. Electrical conductivity varied between 990 to 5390 µS/cm at 25°C, with seven locations exceeding 3000 µS/cm, the highest being at Ram Mandir, Kumedi. Bicarbonate concentrations were observed between 43 and 616 mg/l, with the highest at Ram Mandir, Bhangiya. Chloride levels ranged from 79 to 1010 mg/l, with one location exceeding the permissible limit. Sulfate concentration peaked at 477 mg/l, exceeding the BIS limit of 400 mg/l in Ram Mandir, Kumedi. Fluoride concentrations, while mostly within limits, exceeded BIS guidelines in three locations, with a maximum of 3.40 mg/l at HP-04. Nitrate levels were concerning, with 72.4% of samples exceeding the acceptable limit, the highest being 400 mg/l at Ram Mandir, Kumedi. Phosphate levels were below detection in most samples except for one, and silica concentrations ranged from 27 to 60 mg/l. Total hardness exceeded the permissible limit in 68.9% of samples, with a maximum of 1760 mg/l at HP- 49 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
01. Calcium and magnesium concentrations were also high in several locations, with maximums of 328 mg/l and 229 mg/l, respectively. Sodium and potassium concentrations showed notable variability, though BIS guidelines for these elements are not well-established. The iron, zinc, and manganese concentrations were within permissible limits, with the highest zinc level at Ram Mandir, Kumedi (2.8 mg/l). Nickel levels exceeded the BIS limit in 13.7% of samples, with the maximum at Atulit Chemical Pvt Ltd (0.194 mg/l). Uranium concentrations were within permissible limits, with the highest at 10.12 ppb. Other heavy metals like arsenic, antimony, cadmium, and mercury were below detectable levels.
iii. That some of the industries in the area in question have taken exemption through NOCAP portal as per CGWA notified guidelines dated 24.09.2020 for extraction of ground water less than 10 kld and being MSE's.
iv. Some of the industries in the area in question have been given NOC's issued by the CGWA after following the due process of law as per the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Govt. of India.
v. Water is an extremely important part of our lives. It is used for irrigation, cooking, washing, cleaning, drinking, etc. Water is essential for maintaining good health as it helps in regulating body temperature, carries out normal functioning, aids in digestion and removes toxins from the body. Water also acts as a major controlling factor of all the organisms. The quantity and 50 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
quality of water is also valuable for physiological activities of living organisms. It presents only 3% of total water resources are non-saline fresh water on earth. A very small quantity of water is present in rivers and lakes. Approximately 80% of India's surface water is polluted; the Central Pollution Control Board has estimated that domestic sewerage contributes to 75% of water pollution by volume. Besides, in recent years, the untreated sewage that flows into water bodies including rivers has also doubled. Groundwater depletion and extreme pollution have added to the social and economic crisis. Over the past few years, there has been a growing need for India's water requirements.
Kumedi village is an industrial area near Sanwer road, Indore situated about 9.2 km away from Indore city, M.P. It lies in the Malwa region of western Madhya Pradesh. Kumedi has a big industrial complex developed by various industries which manufactures a variety of products including dying agents, Namkin, Chocolates, Bread and Mustard Oil etc. All these industrial units discharge effluents to the Khan River through nearby Nala."
9. Observation of the CGWB with regard to the groundwater on the above place are that :-
i. Geology of the area comprises Basaltic formation which is overlain by thin top soil and weathered formation. Top soil and weathered basalt form shallow aquifer ranging up to 20mtr. ii. Groundwater occurs under semi confined to confined condition in fractured Basalt/ vesicular Basalt formation. Hydrogeology 51 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors. of the area is mostly controlled by geomorphological set up and climatic condition.
iii. There are two principal aquifer systems occur between 30m to 40m and 100m to 110 m depth in fractured Basalt/ vesicular basalt formation with a discharge of approximately 2-4 lps. iv. Relatively Shallow water level ( 6m) observed at middle part of the study area and having high electrical conductivity ( more than 3000 micro Siemens/cm at 250C) along the nala towards east.
v. The villages (Kumedi, Bhangia) located close to the nala are mostly affected. The ground water quality of Kumedi and Bhangia village before 8 years was good. After development of industrialisation, the polluted water (physically disorder) came into notice in borewell as well as hand pump to public as well as district administration.
vi. The pollutants follow the drainage system of the area and polluted both shallow and deeper aquifer of Kumedi and Bhangia village. The return seepage from surface water irrigation recharges the aquifer and deteriorates the groundwater quality of shallow aquifer.
vii. But the quality of ground water is good across the nala in all direction. The bore wells located away from the nala are being used for drinking as well as domestic purpose. However, the electrical conductivity is about 2760 micro Siemens/ cm. viii. It was also observed that some bore wells provide fresh water after pumping of 1-2 hrs. Though the ground water of northern part of study area is pollution free, the polluted water is started to come out during summer when water level goes down. 52 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors. ➢ The investigation carried out to assess the water quality status in Industrial Area of Kumedi village, Indore emerged the following findings: -
i. In the ground water of BW-01 observed brownish in color and concentration of nitrate (72 mg/l) and Total Hardness (700 mg/l) observed more than permissible limit compared with BIS (10500:2012).
All remaining basic parameter are within
permissible limit.
ii. In the ground water of BW-03, BW-16 and HP-04
samples observed slightly brownish in colour and rest of the samples were colorless. South-east of BW-01 sampling point far from 0.5 km sampling was done in Bore well (BW-02) observed colorless and Dug well (DW-01) observed slightly brown in colour.
iii. In and around of BW-01 location drainage channel flows effluent of different industries appeared in reddish color. These effluent flows towards Kumedi village. Far from BW-01 location color of water appeared colorless.
iv. It is observed in and around Kumedi village near to drainage channel shows discoloration of ground water during summer season.
v. Ground water belonging to industrial area of Kumedi village did not show significant fluctuation in temperature since all the values set out in 53 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
between 20 to 29 °C and pH value ranged in between 6.72 to 8.18.
vi. The Industrial Area of in and around Kumedi village has been found electrical conductivity ranging from 990 - 5390 µS/cm at 25 °C indicating 8 no. of samples exceed conductivity ≥ 3000 µS/cm at 25 °C remaining of the samples belongs to less than 3000 µS/cm at 25 °C. vii. The industrial area of Kumedi village, Indore and its surrounding villages The fluoride concentration in all water samples have been found within permissible limits of BIS (1.50 mg/l) except the three locations namely BW-11: 2.35 mg/l; BW-18: 3.10 and HP-04:
3.40 mg/l.
viii. Nitrate concentration of Kumedi village, Indore and its surrounding village 72.4% (21 out of 29 samples) ground water samples recorded more than 45 mg/l as per BIS recommendation remaining samples are within the permissible limit. Contribution of nitrate may be use of fertilizer in agricultural field in and around Kumedi village and urban drainage flows towards Kumedi village.
ix. The total hardness of water samples in Kumedi village industrial area ranging from 120 to 1760 mg/l. 68.9% samples (20 out of 29 samples) exceed BIS permissible limit of 600 mg/l in the ground water. Waters belonging to in and around villages of 54 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
Kumedi, Indore might be categorized as hard to very hard for household use as well as drinking purpose. x. The Piper tri-linear diagram of Kumedi village industrial area show water is permanent hardness, saline and temporary hardness type.
xi. The US Salinity Diagram shows C3S1, C3S2, C4S1 and C4S2 irrigation classes. It indicates that the quality of water for irrigation is poor to very poor class and it may be used for irrigation purpose for satisfactory crop production is obtained under good management practices and favourable drainage conditions required.
xii. Concentration of Copper, Zinc and Uranium metals in ground water samples are within the permissible limit whereas Arsenic (As), Antimony (Sb), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Mercury (Hg), Lead (Pb), and Tin (Sn) are below detectable limit (BDL). xiii. The Nickel concentration in water samples has been found between 0.007 to 0.194 mg/l. The nickel concentration more than acceptable limit is observed at 4 out of 29 ground water samples.
xiv. The possible reason the water has turned brown is there may be too much iron and/or manganese in water. Although iron and manganese are considered contaminants, drinking water containing these elements actually doesn't harm you in any way as both of these are essential elements that the body requires to function effectively. But, our analysed 55 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
results show iron and manganese concentration are well within the permissible limit.
xv. Two aquifer systems are present in the area.
Alluvium and weathered basalt forms shallow aquifer. Ground water occurs under semi-confined to confined conditions in fractured basalt/ vesicular basalt.
xvi. Shallow water level area has been observed at the central part of the area. Central and Eastern part of water is poor in the villages Kumedi and Bhangia. The aquifers located close to the nala are severely affected.
xvii. Special attention may be given to this area, source of pollution may be identified and steps should be taken to improve the ground water quality. Monitoring of quality of both surface and ground water may be carried out periodically.
xviii. Poor quality of shallow ground water level may be pumped and used for gainful utilization for the industrial requirement after adequate treatment. xix. The Pzs shall be constructed to monitor the water level of that area.
xx. The unconfined aquifer is polluted and not suitable for drinking as well as for irrigation to some extent. xxi. Artificial recharge technique may be adopted scientifically for recharging/ flushing the aquifer in the area in order to dilute the pollutants. 56 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
xxii. High intensity study should be imposed to locate the source of pollution."
10. Notices are also issued to the Central Pollution Control Board to reply the relevant subject and in compliance thereof, the reply has been filed and it is argued that :-
i. "Under the provisions of The Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act 1974, it is prohibited on use of a stream or a well for disposal of polluting matter, etc and no person shall without the previous consent of the State Board:
a) establish or take any steps to establish any industry, operation or process, or any treatment and disposal system or any extension or addition thereto, which is likely to discharge sewage or trade effluent into a stream or well or sewer or on land (such discharge being hereafter in this section referred to as discharge of sewage); or
b) bring into use any new or altered outlet for the discharge of sewage; or
c) begin to make any new discharge of sewage.
ii. That Central Ground Water Authority (hereinafter referred as C.G.W.A.) is a regulatory body established by the government under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 in order to maintain and regulate groundwater resources and prevent its over - exploitation. 57 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors. iii. The C.P.C.B. has framed Effluent Standards for various Industries including of Electro Plating, Pharma, and Chemical Units under the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986. These standards are to be strictly complied with and the regulatory agency for the same is concerned State Pollution Control Board / Pollution Control Committee.
iv. That under Section 17 (f) of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, S.P.C.Bs/P.C.Cs have been entrusted with the statutory mandate to inspect sewage or trade effluents, works and plants or the treatment of sewage and trade effluents and to review plans, specifications or other data relating to plants set up for the treatment of water, works for the purification thereof and the system for the disposal of sewage or trade effluents or in connection with the grant of any consent as required by this Act. v. That Central Pollution Control Board in coordination with State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) / Pollution Control Committees (PCCs) has established a National Water Quality Monitoring Network under the National Water Quality Monitoring Programme (NWMP). Under this program, Khan River is monitored by the Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board (M.P.P.C.B.) in Indore on a monthly basis at three locations viz. River Khan at Kabit Khedi, River Khan at Sakkar Khadi and River Khan at Sanwer. The water quality data of Khan River observed at these monitored locations during the year 2023 is provided in the table herein below :- 58
OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
vi. From the water quality data of the year 2023 it can be gathered that all the three monitored locations are not complying with the Primary Water Quality Criteria for Outdoor Bathing.
vii. The C.P.C.B. identifies Polluted River Stretches (P.R.S.) based on the water quality data of rivers. For identification of P.R.S., locations/stretches of rivers not meeting with the Primary Water Quality criterion of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (B.O.D.) parameter (indicator of organic pollution) for outdoor bathing is considered. B.O.D. concentration exceeding 3 mg/l is identified as polluted stretches. Further, the PRS are also classified under Priority Class I through Class V with Priority I being most polluted with BOD value of more than 30 mg/l and Priority V least polluted with BOD ranging between 3-6 mg/l.
In the year 2018 C.P.C.B. identified P.R.S. based on the water quality data for the year 2016 and 2017. A total of 22 P.R.S. were identified in Madhya Pradesh and the PRS at River Khan was identified from Kabit Khedi to Khajrana under Priority Class I with a maximum BOD of 80 mg/l. 59 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors. viii. That for rejuvenation of P.R.S. identified in the country, comprehensive action plan has been prepared by River Rejuvenation Committee (R.R.C.) constituted by the respective State Government/UT Administration, under the overall supervision and coordination of Principal Secretary, Environment of the concerned State /Union Territory for bringing all the polluted river stretches identified by CPCB fit for bathing purposes. The prepared action plan is being implemented by the respective State Governments and is also regularly monitored by a Central Monitoring Committee (C.M.C.) headed by the Secretary, Ministry of Jal Shakti. So far, CMC has conducted 18 meetings with States/UTs to review the progress on execution of action plans for rejuvenation of polluted river stretches and the last meeting was held on 10.01.2024.
ix. That the P.R.S. were further identified in the year 2022, based on water quality data of rivers monitored between 2019 & 2021; 2020 was not considered due to COVID Pandemic. A total of 19 P.R.S. were identified in Madhya Pradesh. The P.R.S. at River Khan was identified from Indore to Sanwer under Priority Class I with a maximum BOD of 46 mg/l.
x. The provisions of The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974 are being implemented by the S.P.C.BS/P.C.Cs by consent management to regulate discharge of effluents and enforcement of standards in respect of polluting sources. It is submitted that the M.P.P.C.B. has conducted a survey about the industries in 60 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
Indore and prepared a Report. Copy of the report is annexed herewith and marked as Annexure R-4/IV. As per the survey report, there are about 548 Industries (mainly electroplating, chemical, confectionery and Pharma units) which are using acid in large quantities responsible for polluted water. Out of these industries 127 are categorized as Red, 176 as Orange and 245 as Green category. Out of 548 industries 217 are identified as water polluting units. It is further submitted that as per irregularities found while the survey conducted by M.P.P.C.B. in the month of June, 2023 certain corrective measures have been taken by M.P.P.C.B. M.P.P.C.B. had submitted detailed Action Taken Report."
11. The subject matter of water quality was further discussed in the minutes of the 15th Meeting of the Central Monitoring Committee on 10.01.2023 and the matter of Madhya Pradesh and its ground water and the treatment facility with operational STP has been discussed as follows :-
"26. Madhya Pradesh Director (Technical), NMCG informed that the total sewage generation in the State is 2183.65 MLD. 53 STPs of total 1227.99 MLD capacity are now operational, 2 new STPs of 52.5 MLD capacity have been completed since last CMC meeting. At present gap in sewage treatment capacity in the State is 955.66 MLD. 52 STPs of 528.79 MLD are under construction, of which 3 STPs of 84 MLD are under trial run and 7 STPs of 35.05 MLD are under proposal/tender stage. However, proposal for 234 MLD STPs [Indore (75 new +120 MLD replacement), Ujjain-22 MLD and Nagda-17 MLD] is under consideration in NMCG, the same has not 61 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors. been reported in MPR. A gap of about 277 MLD in sewage treatment capacity exists, even after considering the under construction and proposed STPs. Functioning of the existing STPs are being reported to be satisfactory. However, 2 STPs at Indore (12 and 78 MLD) are reported to be non-complying. With regard to industrial pollution and solid waste management, the status is reported to be same as submitted in previous CMC meeting. CPCB in 2018 identified 22 polluted river stretches in the State. As per the State MPR of November 2022, water quality is not satisfactory in the stretch of river Betwa, river Chambal, river Khan, river Kshipra and Mandakini river. Water quality data of river Kolar is not reported. As per the latest 2022 CPCB report, the number of polluted river stretches has come down to 19. 2 Priority IV polluted river stretches (Gohad, Kolar) and 5 Priority V polluted river stretches (Choupan, Katni, Simrar, Tons, Waingana) have now been removed from the list. However, 4 new river stretches - Hiran (Priority IV), Johila (Priority IV), Mahi (Priority V) and river Wardha (Priority V) have been added in latest report. Commissioner (Urban Development), Madhya Pradesh informed that to bridge the gap of 391 MLD in sewage treatment, 234 MLD has proposed in NMCG and for 36 ULBs STPs of 1023 MLD capacity is proposed under AMRUT 2. At present, the capacity utilization of STPs is 748 MLD instead of 721 as reported in MPR. With regard to 9 river polluted stretches which are still a concern, Member Secretary, Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board informed that for Betwa river at Mandideep stretch, two 62 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
bioremediation plants are operational and one liquid management work proposed in SBM 2. For Chambal river (at Nagda stretch), bioremediation work is operational on pilot basis and a CETP is also operational. A 15 MLD STP is proposed under Namami Gange and a 20 MLD STP is under AMRUT 2. For Khan river, 3 STPs of cumulative capacity 195 MLD are proposed at Indore under Namami Gange and STP of 225 MLD under AMRUT 2. For River Kshipra stretch in Ujjain, a 192.5 MLD STP is proposed in AMRUT 2 and 22 MLD STP under Namami Gange. For Mandakini river stretch at Chitrakoot Satna, a 4.7 MLD STP is under construction and is expected to be completed in 2 months and after completion of this STP water quality will be improved in this stretch. The bioremediation works undertaken at Nagda and Mandideep have not provided very satisfactory results.
ED (Tech), NMCG raised the issue of slow progress reported in the MPR with regard to the ongoing STP projects, especially at Murawara, Rewa and Satna. The App based monitoring of the projects being undertaken in the State may be vigilantly monitored for ensuring delay in completion and commissioning of the projects.
State informed that contracts of the said project have been terminated and now new contractor is in onboard and in subsequent months progress will increase. i. IMC has not completed the laying of pipeline in Sectors A,B & D of the industrial area, however Regional Office Indore has issued letter to the Indore Municipal Corporation vide 63 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
letters no. 1708 dated 12/07/2022, no. 2406 dated 22/09/2022, no. 2214 dated 20/06/2023, no. 2499 dated 24/07/2023 to ensure compliance of the directions. ii. IMC has not installed STP at Chhota Bangarda and not taken any action for interception of waste water of Bhorasala Nallah to divert wastewater into CETP. iii. Most of the ground water samples were found within the range of 500-2000 mg/L as prescribed in Drinking water standards IS 10500:2012 except some samples of sector A, Sector E, Sector F and Kumedi Village ground water samples exceed permissible limit in absence of alternative source which is 2000 mg/L in certain months i.e. April, May, June 2023.
iv. It is found that the maximum value of TDS is observed in the month of April to June i.e. summer season. Reason of higher TDS may be due to the ground water table goes deep down so that concentration of principle contributing to dissolved solids (Carbonate, Bicarbonate, Chloride, Sulphates, Nitrate, Silicate, Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, And Magnesium) are increased. So in the summer, The TDS concentration found at higher level in ground water. v. As per drinking water standards prescribed limit for TDS are 500 mg/L (acceptable limit) and 2000 mg/L (permissible limit in absence of alternate source), therefore, as per study report, ground water of Sanwer Road Industrial Area and Kumedi is not suitable for drinking without treatment. vi. Industrial area Sanwer Road was established about 60 years ago. At present, more than 500 industries, most of 64 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
which are small scale category. Due to the blockage and damage of the pipelines laid by the Municipal Corporation for collection of wastewater from industries to CETP, leakage of wastewater water takes place, which ultimately reaches to nallahs. This is one of the reason of pollution into nallah and Kanh River and also ground water. vii. Discharge of wastewater by defaulter industries outside their premises into the nallah and industrial area as well. viii. The land application of the treated effluent for long time was taken place by the industries in the past, when CETP was not installed.
ix. Due to the low capacity of the pipeline laid for transporting wastewater in the industrial area, the waste water leaks and gets mixed in the nallah through the drains. x. Discharge of untreated sewage/domestic wastewater from the residential colonies located at upstream of the industrial area into Narvar Nallah and Bhorasala Nallah. xi. The polluted water of the commercial area and illegal colonies situated in the industrial area gets discharged into the nallah without treatment.
xii. Due to the lack of STP system in the residential colonies situated around the Narwar nallah, untreated polluted water gets discharged into the nallah, which has also affected the ground water.
xiii. The polluted water of the new colonies and townships developed around Sri Aurobindo Hospital gets mixed in the Bhaurasia nallah without treatment, which finally gets 65 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.
mixed in the Narwar nallah and then gets mixed in the Kanh river.
xiv. Domestic wastewater from Niranjanpur, Mangaliya, Tulsi Nagar, colonies/townships around bypass and rural areas is released into Kanh river through local drains without any treatment, which creates pollution in the river."
12. In view of the above facts we direct the respondents to take remedial measures which are required to be taken immediately as follows :-
i. All water polluting industries shall ensure to treat their effluent within premises and sent to CETP for further treatment. IMC shall complete the laying of pipeline for conveyance of wastewater to CETP at the earliest and ensure that whole quantity of wastewater from industries be treated properly. Pipeline capacity should also be increased to cater whole quantity of wastewater and to prevent any leakages and seepage. The IMC should upgrade CETP by installing ZLD system comprised of Reverse Osmosis (RO), Multi Effect Evaporator (MEE) and Agitated Thin Film Dryer (ATFD) and ensure treated effluent to reuse/recycle by the industries in cooling, boilers, washing, plantation etc. ii. The IMC should install one more CETP near Kumedi to treat the wastewater generating from industries located in Kumedi and nearby area. The IMC should install online app to keep keen vigil on waste water generators & those are sending waste water through tankers. The IMC should explore the possibility of making nallah leak proof in the length of industrial area.
66 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors. iii. Sewage Treatment Plants (STP) of adequate capacity should be installed for treatment of waste water reaching to Narvar Nallah, Bhorasala Nallah and Kanh River'. The IMC shall install rainwater harvesting systems at Kumedi Village."
13. We further direct that aquifers located close to the Nala must be properly managed and it should be technically in a good condition to properly work and the source of pollution may be periodically identified and steps should be taken to improve the groundwater quality. Monitoring of quality of both surface and groundwater must be carried out periodically and the provisions of underground water recharge must be taken on priority basis by the administration. Poor quality of shallow groundwater level may be pumped and used for gainful utilization for the industrial requirement after adequate treatment and the PZs shall be constructed to monitor the water level of that area. Artificial recharge technique must be adopted scientifically for recharging/flushing the aquifer in the area in order to dilute the pollutants.
14. The Integrated Office of the Centre Pollution Control Board at Bhopal and the Member Secretary, State Pollution Control Board shall periodically examine the report of groundwater quality and its parameter for human consumption and to take remedial measures with suggestions from time to time.
15. We further direct the Municipal Corporation/ Collector concerned that by consisting a team of the expert members, the periodic inspections shall be done to examine the industries operating within the area and mainly involved in electroplating, chemical, confectionery and pharma units using acid in large quantities and responsible for polluting the groundwater and discharging untreated water into the water bodies or the open drainage 67 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors. system causing health hazards. Proper action should be taken with direction that they must have treatment plant and no untreated water should be discharged into the open land or drainage system or the river bodies.
16. The Municipal Corporation and the State PCB is further directed to ensure that the construction, connectivity and the operation of the ETP or the CETP must be completed within a time frame as early as possible and within one year.
17. With these observations, the Original Application No. 214/2024 stands disposed of.
18. A copy of the order be forwarded to the Secretary, Environment, Member Secretary, State Pollution Control Board, Madhya Pradesh, Municipal Corporation, Indore and the Collector, Indore for taking proper action and remedial measures.
Sheo Kumar Singh, JM Dr. Vijay Kulkarni, EM 04th April, 2025 O.A No. 214/2024(CZ) PN 68 OA No. 214/2024(CZ) Rashid Noor Khan Vs. Principal Chief Conservator of Forst, M.P. & Ors.