Jaisalmer: A severe environmental “crisis” in Barmer has prompted urgent calls for intervention from both local and national authorities. During a two-day visit to the region, Justice Afroz Ahmad, an expert member of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) principal bench in New Delhi, met local officials to evaluate the situation and devise a strategic plan.Barmer MP Ummeda Ram Beniwal underscored the inadequate maintenance of green belts in industrial, mining, solar, and crude oil sectors, while pointing to repeat violations of the Union environment ministry’s and NGT guidelines. Advocating for a comprehensive survey, investigation, and strict enforcement measures, Beniwal expressed grave concern over the unscientific disposal of waste from crude oil extraction, which has resulted in chemically contaminated water affecting agricultural wells, damaging crops, and threatening farmers’ livelihoods. Aside from private companies failing to follow environmental guidelines, Barmer faces severe pollution in the Luni river, caused by chemical wastewater from industrial factories in Jodhpur, Pali, and Balotra areas. Justice Ahmad stressed the urgent need for the district administration to implement the District Environment Plan, which addresses solid and liquid waste, sewerage, mining, and the protection of rivers and lakes. He also said mining operations must adhere to requirements of planting trees on at least 33% of the area, with no exceptions.
