Shimla, Oct 14,
A public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court of India, demanding immediate action to address the rampant illegal constructions and encroachments on riverbeds and floodplains across the country. The petitioner, Dr. Ashok Kumar Raghav, a former IPS officer and environmental activist, argues that these practices pose a significant threat to the nation’s water security and environmental sustainability.
Acting upon it the Supreme Court, on Monday, issued Notices to the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Central Water Commission & CPCB on a petition filed against the rampant illegal and unauthorized constructions on the floodplains and catchments of the rivers, their tributaries, water channels and all water courses, which has become the biggest causes of floods and associated devastation, apart from other hazardous human, ecological and health impacts, informed Akash Vashistha.
Adding, that a Bench led by Chief Justice, Dr. DY Chandrachud, called the responses from the concerned Ministries/authorities within three weeks.
The petition highlights the alarming increase in illegal constructions along rivers, which often result in devastating floods, infrastructure damage, and loss of lives. The lack of a clear legal framework to regulate and prohibit such activities has exacerbated the problem.
In the petition Dr. Raghav emphasizes the urgent need for the Central Government to notify the River Conservation Zone (RCZ)/River Regulation Zone (RRZ) regulations, which were first drafted in 2011 but have been pending for over a decade. These regulations are crucial for protecting rivers from harmful encroachments and ensuring their ecological health.
The petition also points out the severe water crisis facing India, with millions of people already facing water scarcity. The uncontrolled construction on riverbeds further exacerbates this crisis by reducing groundwater recharge, polluting water sources, and disrupting the natural flow of rivers.
“ The unchecked encroachment on riverbeds is a ticking time bomb. It not only leads to immediate disasters but also has long-term consequences for our water resources and ecosystems,” noted the petition. Adding, “ Rivers are the lifeline of our country. Protecting them is essential for ensuring water security and addressing the challenges posed by climate change.”
The petitioner urges the Supreme Court to issue a writ of mandamus directing the Central Government to take immediate action to protect rivers and water resources. The petition emphasizes the importance of safeguarding rivers as they are crucial for the nation’s water security, environmental sustainability, and the livelihoods of millions of people.
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