The Orissa High Court has ordered the state government to take action against pollution in rivers, which has been causing harm to the environment and public health. Background: The issue began when it was discovered that rivers in Orissa were heavily polluted, with many industries and municipalities releasing untreated effluents into the water. Parties: The petitioners, a group of environmental activists, argued that the pollution in the rivers was a serious threat to the environment and public health, and that the state government had failed to take adequate measures to address the issue. The respondents, the Orissa government, claimed that they were taking steps to address the issue. Legal issues: The court considered the issue of whether the state government had failed to take adequate measures to address the pollution in the rivers, and whether the petitioners had a valid challenge to the government's inaction. Court observations: The court observed that the pollution in the rivers was a serious threat to the environment and public health, and that the state government had failed to take adequate measures to address the issue. The court also noted that the state government had a responsibility to protect the environment and public health. Significance: The order is significant as it recognizes the need for governments to take proactive measures to protect the environment and public health. The case highlights the importance of holding governments accountable for their actions, and ensuring that they take adequate measures to address environmental and public health issues.