The National Green Tribunal’s Principal Bench has clarified that its order mandating the installation of GPS tracking systems applies to all commercial water tankers, including those that transport treated water from Sewage Treatment Plants (STP).
Information was available with The Chenab Times that this clarification was issued following an order on May 28, 2025, which had directed the exclusive use of GPS-fitted tankers for commercial water supply and stipulated strict penalties, including the registration of First Information Reports (FIRs), for illegal groundwater extraction.
Two intervenor applicants had approached the tribunal seeking a directive that the order should not be extended to tankers carrying treated sewage water and also requested protection from potential legal action.
After reviewing the submissions from all parties involved, the tribunal affirmed that while the reuse of treated STP water is environmentally beneficial and distinct from groundwater, the earlier directive concerning GPS installation is applicable to all tankers involved in commercial water supply. This includes those transporting treated STP water, aiming to prevent the illicit diversion of groundwater under the guise of treated water transport.
The tribunal specifically highlighted observed shortcomings in the monitoring framework employed by the Delhi Jal Board (DJB). These deficiencies included inadequate record-keeping practices and instances where tanker drivers failed to carry essential transit documentation during operations.
Consequently, the NGT has mandated that the DJB must implement a system of issuing gate passes and transit passes for every tanker dispatched. Comprehensive records are to be maintained by the board for all such issuances and movements. Tanker drivers are now required to possess and present the relevant documentation upon request during transit. Failure to comply with these directives will result in legal repercussions under prevailing environmental and criminal legislation.
The installation of GPS devices is deemed crucial for ensuring effective oversight of water tanker operations across the capital. This measure is intended to enhance accountability and prevent any potential circumvention of regulations, particularly concerning the sourcing and transportation of water. The tribunal’s directive aims to create a more transparent and regulated system for commercial water supply, thereby safeguarding precious water resources and promoting environmental compliance.
The NGT’s emphasis on stringent monitoring and documentation underscores the importance of robust regulatory mechanisms in managing urban resources. The tribunal’s intervention is a significant step towards ensuring that commercial water transport adheres to environmental norms and contributes to sustainable water management practices within the city. The directive also reflects a broader effort to streamline and improve the operational efficiency of water distribution services, ensuring that they align with ecological mandates and public interest.
The order is expected to lead to a more structured approach to water tanker management, where the origins and destinations of all commercially transported water are meticulously tracked. This increased traceability is anticipated to deter malpractice and promote adherence to environmental standards, ultimately contributing to better water resource management in the Delhi region.
The Delhi Jal Board is expected to collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure the swift and effective implementation of these new guidelines. The success of this initiative hinges on the diligent enforcement of the NGT’s directives and the cooperation of all stakeholders involved in the commercial water supply chain. The tribunal’s clear pronouncements aim to leave no room for ambiguity regarding the requirements for commercial water tankers operating within its jurisdiction.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
