High Court Summons Top Officials Over Dhanbad’s Toxic Air

Ranchi (IANS): The Jharkhand High Court took a stern stand against Dhanbad’s “toxic air” on Thursday, summoning the district’s top brass to explain the city’s deteriorating environmental conditions. A division bench led by Chief Justice M.S. Sonak expressed deep concern over rampant illegal mining and the health risks posed by coal dust.

Officials Ordered to Appear

The court has directed the following officials to appear in person on April 2, 2026:

• Deputy Commissioner (DC) and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of Dhanbad.

• Chairman-cum-Managing Director (CMD) of Bharat Coking Coal Limited (BCCL).

• Member Secretary of the Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board.

• Dhanbad Municipal Commissioner.

Court Slams Police and Administration

During the hearing, the bench questioned the effectiveness of the local police, noting a lack of “visible steps” to curb the illegal extraction and transportation of coal. While the state government’s affidavit claimed pollution was “under control,” the court found the submission lacked specific details regarding anti-mining actions.

BCCL vs. Local Police

Advocate Amit Kumar Das, representing BCCL, defended the company’s efforts, citing the development of parks in abandoned mines and regular water sprinkling. However, BCCL leveled a serious allegation in court, claiming that while they have filed multiple FIRs against illegal miners, the local police have failed to take adequate action.

The petitioner, Rural Unity Forum, argued that most pollution control measures exist only on paper, leaving residents to suffer from rising respiratory ailments.