Role of Judiciary in Protecting and Preserving the Environment

The present dynamic environment is evolving at a rapid rate with change in technology, industrialisation, urbanisation, population growth and many other factors. But these changes are not only developing but also degrading the environment as with the growth the natural resources are exploited, the natural energy forces are depleted and other types of pollution of water, air, sound, nature takes place. All these changes are in turn degrading the quality of life or human lives. According to article 21 of the Indian Constitution a person has a Right To Live Life In A Healthy Environment but because of these rapid changes this Fundamental Right gets violated. In order to control and put checks and balances on the degradation of the environment and the use of natural resources and energy the judiciary various steps by various legislations and procedures along with establishment of specified judicial bodies such as national Green Tribunal for dealing with the environmental issues. The honourable court had also ruled various landmark judgements in this regard. Through this paper is an attempt is made to highlight and discuss the role judiciary plays in protecting the environment and preserving its sustainability.