Study Finds Micro Polythene In Fishes: Bombay High Court Takes Suo-Moto Cognizance Of Garbage Pollution On Mumbai Seashores

The Court took note of a report from a leading daily newspaper, which disclosed the presence of micro polythene in marine fishes. The report was based on a study conducted by the Central Institute of Fisheries Research.

Today, a Division Bench of Devendra Kumar Upadhyaya and Justice M.M Sathaye said, “We are taking cognizance of the matter based on the newspaper report.”

The CJ remarked “What is happening as per the report…the report is based on a study conducted by Central Institute of Fisheries Research…it is an ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research)…As per the report, micro polythene is found in the intestine of fishes, which are in turn being consumed by people.”

The Court also took note of another study, which studied the impact of garbage in the sea during floods.

“The study stated that in case of sudden flood in the sea, the garbage has created hurdle in the national gradient of the sea, it will take more time for flood water to recede in sea level.”

The CJ remarked, "That might cause severe damage to residents here." He further remarked “The report is very horrifying. It is not only causing danger to the marine life but humans also.”

The Court said that it would seek assistance from the State Pollution Control Board, State Pollution Control Board, Central Government through the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and the Central Institute of Fisheries Research, Bombay.

The Court cautioned about the microplastics ending up in the sea. It said, “The use of microplastics goes through drains to the sea ultimately…There are bans on microplastics but they are ineffective.