In a recent development, as reported by the Indian Daily, The Hindu, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Ministry of Environment to issue a notification by December 31, 2020 to ban use of all RO (Reverse Osmosis) Purifiers, wherein the TDS i.e. Total Dissolved Solids in the water is less than 500mg per litre of water[1].
NGT’s order prohibiting use of RO
It would be relevant to mention here that the National Green Tribunal had earlier vide its order dated May 28, 2019, instructed the Ministry to issue notification prohibiting use of RO’s in areas where TDS in water was less than 500 milligram/ litre. Aggrieved by NGT’s impugned order, the Water Quality Association of India i.e. manufacturers of RO purifiers had also approached the Supreme Court, wherein the Apex Court directed the appellants to approach the Ministry and point out to the Ministry the material the appellants have in possession against the ban imposed by NGT prohibiting use of RO water purifiers in such areas. However, no appropriate action or notification has been issued by the Ministry in this regard till now.
NGT Ban: SC asks RO manufacturers to approach Ministry
Reportedly, the NGT in the case also expressed its disconcert on the delay being caused by the Ministry in issuing any appropriate notification in the matter.
The case has been next listed for hearing on January 23, 2021.
The NGT’s order prohibiting use of RO water purifiers has given a severe jolt to the manufacturers. RO water purifiers have become an indispensable household item for any general Indian household today. The public to avoid consumption of polluted water and associated health benefits has been hugely investing in RO water purifiers. However, the NGT through its expert committee report has highlighted that RO water purifier system demineralizes water in areas where TDS in water is less than 500 milligram/ litre, thereby making it unhealthy for human consumption.