STATE OF UTTAR PRADESH Vs. M C MEHTA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Air pollution being the main threat to the ecologically fragile Taj mahal, the level of air pollution affecting the Taj becomes a critical factor in its protection. Hence, the Central Government is required to take a specific stand for protecting this world-famous monument by controlling air pollution and on the question as to whether foundries run by means of coal are required to be continued near the Taj.

(2.) The case has a long history. But before going into various aspects of the matter, we want to have an idea of the air pollution in this area, as of today.

(3.) The Central Pollution Control Board will therefore make an inspection within two days of the Taj Trapezium and find out the levels of various types of pollution having relevance not only to public health but also to the Taj monument. The Central Pollution Control Board will also visit the Foundry nagar industries in connection with this case and file a report as to whether they are meeting the standards of pollution prescribed in this behalf. The report will be filed within two weeks but the inspection will be done within two days as directed above.