Daily Court Digest: Major Environment Orders (February 2, 2026)
Published on: February 4, 2026
Source: Down To Earth
Overview
This article summarizes key environmental cases heard in the Supreme Court, high courts, and the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on February 2, 2026. The focus is on alarming levels of chromium contamination in Kanpur and ongoing sewage treatment projects in Bihar.
Chromium Contamination in Kanpur
Recent reports have revealed that chromium levels exceed permissible limits in blood samples collected from Kanpur Nagar, Kanpur Dehat, and Fatehpur districts in Uttar Pradesh. This alarming finding was part of an action taken report submitted by the District Magistrate of Kanpur Nagar, in compliance with an NGT order issued on November 25, 2025.
Blood Sample Survey
The report detailed a cluster-based blood sample survey conducted with the guidance of Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Memorial Medical (GSVM) College, Kanpur Nagar, and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi. A meeting held on January 8, 2026, established a standard operating procedure (SOP) for Phase-I of the survey.
Survey Methodology
- Selection of 30 households from each identified cluster.
- Collection of two blood samples per household: one from a child under 5 years and one from an adult over 18 years.
- Continuous health camps organized for clinical assessment and treatment of affected individuals.
Health Camps and Findings
In January 2026, a total of 26 health camps were organized, screening 1,173 patients. The GSVM Medical College has proposed the establishment of a heavy metals testing laboratory to address the contamination issue.
During Phase-I of the survey, conducted from January 19 to 29, 2026, 586 blood samples were collected and sent for testing. Results indicated that:
- Chromium levels exceeded permissible limits in 215 samples.
- Four samples showed elevated levels of both chromium and mercury.
- Ten samples indicated elevated levels of chromium and lead.
Proposed Environmental Survey by IIT Kanpur
In compliance with NGT directions, IIT Kanpur has proposed a comprehensive environmental survey to assess contaminants in surface water, groundwater, industrial effluents, soil, and air across the affected districts. The survey will be conducted in two phases:
Phase-I
- Sampling of approximately 100 surface water samples, 300 groundwater samples, 300 soil samples, and 100 ambient air samples.
- Duration: Approximately six months post budget allocation.
Phase-II
- Extension of the survey to remaining areas of the districts.
- Duration: An additional six to twelve months, depending on Phase-I results.
Budget and Implementation
The estimated budget for the survey is Rs 2,65,50,000. The proposal has been forwarded to the Principal Secretary of the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department, and subsequently to the Medical Health and Family Welfare Department for financial approval.
Sewage Treatment Plant Compliance in Bihar
In a related matter, the Gaya Interception and Diversion and Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) scheme is progressing as per NGT directives. The delay in finalizing the detailed project report (DPR) is attributed to a mandatory third-party appraisal by IIT Kharagpur, which is currently at an advanced stage.
Project Details
The project aims to address sewage treatment and pollution control in Gaya town, Bihar. The Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation (BUIDCO) is the executing agency and has included necessary areas in the DPR under the Namami Gange Programme.
Current Status
The Gaya Municipal Corporation has issued the requisite no-objection certificate for the project. The Director of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has requested IIT Kharagpur to conduct an independent appraisal of the DPR.
STP Compliance Findings
Out of five STPs tested by IIT Kanpur, only the 210 MLD Bingawan STP was found non-compliant with chemical oxygen demand standards. However, recent tests conducted by the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board and IIT Kanpur have confirmed that the STP is now meeting prescribed norms.
Conclusion
The ongoing environmental issues in Kanpur and the sewage treatment initiatives in Bihar highlight the urgent need for effective monitoring and remediation strategies. The collaboration between various institutions and government bodies is crucial in addressing these challenges and ensuring public health and environmental safety.
Note: This article is based on the latest information available as of February 2, 2026, and is subject to updates as new developments occur.
