M/S SOUTHERN PETROCHEMICAL INDUSTRIES CORPORATION LTD. vs S. JOEL

The Supreme Court upheld the National Green Tribunal's directive prohibiting the Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage Board (TWAD Board) from using forest land diverted for drinking water purposes for industrial activities, in violation of the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980. The Court emphasized that the approval granted was strictly for drinking water and any diversion for industrial use would require separate clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). The Court affirmed the Tribunal's interim order restricting water use to drinking purposes only, thereby reinforcing compliance with environmental regulations.