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@article{183959,
        author = {Sowmya.K and Prof.Dr.C.Basavaraju},
        title = {Combating Industrial and Mining Pollution Through Public Interest Litigation: Emerging Trends and Case Law Analysis},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2025},
        volume = {12},
        number = {3},
        pages = {3726-3733},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=183959},
        abstract = {Industrialization and mining are often hailed as the twin engines of economic development in India. From employment generation to infrastructure development, these sectors have played a crucial role in transforming India into a modern, industrialized economy. However, the environmental costs associated with these sectors are significant and, in many cases, irreversible. The extraction of natural resources, release of toxic effluents, deforestation, land degradation, air and water pollution, and displacement of local communities are just some of the detrimental consequences that have raised serious environmental and human rights concerns. In this context, Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has emerged as a revolutionary legal mechanism in India. Unlike traditional litigation, which requires a direct personal interest, PIL allows concerned citizens, NGOs, and civil society organizations to approach the courts on behalf of affected communities or in the interest of the public at large. In environmental matters, PIL has served as a democratic equalizer, enabling access to justice for marginalized and voiceless populations often bearing the brunt of unchecked industrial and mining activities.
This article critically examines landmark judgments where the judiciary has invoked PIL to uphold environmental principles such as the Polluter Pays Principle, Precautionary Principle, Public Trust Doctrine, and Absolute Liability. It also traces emerging trends, including the use of technology in environmental monitoring, suo motu cognizance by courts, and the proactive role of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and High Courts. Furthermore, the article highlights institutional gaps, misuse of PILs, and technical challenges faced by the judiciary in such complex cases. Finally, it offers policy and legal recommendations aimed at strengthening the efficacy of PILs as tools for environmental accountability and sustainable development in the face of growing industrial and mining challenges.},
        keywords = {Environment Protection, Development, Industry, Mining activities, Justice, PIL},
        month = {August},
        }