Supreme Court’s Landmark Ruling on Tanneries in Vellore

January 31, 2025

The Supreme Court of India has recently issued ruling regarding the environmental impact of tanneries in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. It compared the pollution in the Palar River (a water source for 30 towns and 50 villages) due to untreated tannery waste to an “ecocide” (severe environmental destruction). The court found that these industries have caused severe and irreversible damage to local waterbodies, groundwater, and agricultural lands.

Background of the Case

The case arose from complaints about tanneries discharging untreated effluents into the Palar River. The Supreme Court’s bench, led by Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan, brought into light the environmental degradation resulting from these actions. Local farmers and residents have suffered due to the contamination of their water sources and agricultural lands.

Key Findings of the Judgment

The court concluded that the tanneries violated environmental standards set by regulatory bodies. Despite claims of establishing a central effluent treatment plant, the tanneries failed to achieve the required zero discharge levels. The judgment emphasised the need for compliance with statutory guidelines and the importance of protecting public health.

Pollution Levels

Tannery wastewater contains harmful pollutants like:
- Suspended solids, nitrogen, sulphate, sulphide, chloride
- Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), chromium
Pollution control started only after 1980.
A December 2024 report by the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board found higher pollution levels in the Palar River compared to 2015.

Economic & Industrial Importance

Tamil Nadu has 45% of India’s tanneries.
50% of chemicals used in leather processing turn into wastewater or sludge.
India produces 13% of the world’s leather, with the industry valued at ₹40,000 crore.

Compensation and Accountability

The Supreme Court directed that compensation be paid to affected parties within six weeks. It also stated that in cases of non-compliance, responsible parties could face imprisonment in Tihar Jail, rather than local facilities. This stipulation puts stress on the seriousness of the court’s commitment to environmental justice.

Formation of an Oversight Committee

The ruling mandated the establishment of a committee to audit and ensure environmental compliance in Vellore. This committee will include a retired high court judge and representatives from various governmental and environmental bodies. The aim is to create a clean and healthy environment for the local community.

Role of Pollution Control Boards

The judgment instructed both the state and Central Pollution Control Boards to collaborate on setting emission standards for the tanning industry. These standards must align with international regulations and consider recommendations from relevant regulatory bodies.

Licensing and Regulatory Measures

The court clarified that licensing authorities have the power to revoke licenses for misrepresentation or violations of terms. This provision enhances accountability within the tanning industry and aims to enforce stricter compliance with environmental laws.

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