NGT Addresses Plastic Bottle Policy in Schools; Next Hearing Scheduled for July
Synopsis
The National Green Tribunal is scrutinizing a ban on metal water bottles in schools due to health risks linked to plastic usage. Authorities must respond by July, as the case raises significant environmental concerns.
Key Takeaways
NGT scrutinizing plastic bottle use in schools.
Next hearing set for July 8.
Health risks of plastic highlighted.
Legal implications under environmental laws .
Raghubir Singh Junior Modern School involved in proceedings.
New Delhi, April 3 (NationPress) The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has provided authorities and a private institution in Central Delhi additional time to respond in a suo motu case regarding the prohibition of metal water bottles and the potential health hazards associated with plastic use among students.
A Bench led by Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava, accompanied by Expert Member Dr Afroz Ahmad, was reviewing the case prompted by a news article titled “Parents express concerns over metal water bottle ban at private school,” which was published on January 18.
During the latest hearing, the representative for the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) indicated that their response had been submitted. Subsequently, the green tribunal instructed the registry to review and include it in the records if no errors were detected.
The Delhi government's Directorate of Education counsel, appearing online, requested a six-week extension to submit their response, which the Justice Shrivastava-led Bench approved.
Noticing that the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) had not been properly notified, the NGT ordered the registry to take new measures to ensure proper communication. Additionally, Raghubir Singh Junior Modern School, located on Humayun Road, was added to the proceedings as a party upon request during the hearing.
“R.S. Junior Modern School through its Principal… is included as a respondent,” stated the Justice Shrivastava-led Bench, noting that the school's counsel acknowledged the notice and sought time for a reply.
The tribunal also instructed the office to prepare an updated memo of parties to include the school as a respondent.
The case is scheduled for further examination on July 8.
Earlier, the NGT had taken suo motu notice of the situation, indicating that the reported policy allowing only plastic water bottles in the school poses significant health and environmental issues.
“Plastic bottles release microplastics, which adversely affect health… such policies by schools may harm young children,” the green tribunal remarked in its January 20 ruling.
It was also noted that the matter pertains to the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, raising considerable questions about adherence to environmental standards.
Point of View
The National Green Tribunal is examining the implications of a ban on metal water bottles in schools, prompted by health concerns surrounding plastic use. The tribunal's actions reflect a growing awareness of environmental standards and children's health, underscoring the importance of responsible policies in educational institutions.
NationPress
14 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue being addressed by the NGT?
The NGT is addressing the ban on metal water bottles in schools and the health risks associated with plastic usage among students.
When is the next hearing for this case?
The next hearing for this case is scheduled for July 8.
Why is the NGT concerned about plastic bottles?
The NGT is concerned that plastic bottles leach microplastics, which can negatively affect health, particularly in young children.
What legal acts are relevant to this case?
The case pertains to the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
Which school has been added as a respondent in the case?
Raghubir Singh Junior Modern School has been added as a respondent in the proceedings.
