HC reviews cleanliness, waste-management measures at Atal Tunnel, Manali and Koksar
Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Wikipedia (Internet)
Shimla, Dec 4,
The Himachal Pradesh High Court on Wednesday monitored the ongoing public interest litigation concerning sanitation, waste handling and civic infrastructure around the Atal Tunnel, Manali and Koksar. The Bench, hearing three connected PILs, examined compliance affidavits submitted by district authorities and took note of the progress made so far.
During the proceedings, the Court recorded a communication placed on file by the Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil), Lahaul & Spiti, confirming that 25 percent of the amount sanctioned for establishing electrical connectivity at the Koksar Material Recovery Facility (MRF) had been released to the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board. The remaining amount, the Court directed, must be released in instalments before the next hearing so that the electricity infrastructure project moves ahead without delays.
The Court was apprised that the MRF at Koksar requires a permanent 33 kV underground power line, a project already sanctioned under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme for the 2025–26 financial year. Until this system is operational, diesel generators continue to provide interim support to maintain the basic functioning of the facility.
In addition, the Court was informed that earlier directions for placing display boards outside toilets near the North Portal of Atal Tunnel had been complied with. The Bench also noted submissions made by counsel in connected matters regarding adoption of replies filed by the Manali Municipal Council.
The matter will be taken up for further consideration on the next scheduled date.
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